derogate
/'derəgeit/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Verb:
- To detract from, to lessen the worth or importance of something: To take away from or diminish the value, quality, or reputation of a person, thing, or concept.
- To deviate from a standard or expectation: To depart from what is considered proper, correct, or a previously established condition.
Usage
- The verb "derogate" is typically used in formal or academic contexts. It is almost always followed by the preposition "from".
- It describes an action that causes a reduction in merit, authority, or esteem.
Examples
- Verb:
- The new evidence did not derogate from the original findings; it merely added context.
- Such behavior derogates from the dignity of the office he holds.
- He felt that the trivial criticism derogated from his significant achievement.
Advanced Usage
- "to derogate from one's authority": to diminish or undermine one's power or right to command.
- The unauthorized statement by the minister derogated from the president's authority.
- "to derogate from a principle": to act in a way that is inconsistent with or weakens a fundamental rule or belief.
- The emergency measures were seen as derogating from the principle of free movement.
Variants and Related Words
- Derogation (n): The act of derogating or the state of being derogated; a lessening or impairment.
- The new law was seen as a derogation of citizens' rights.
- Derogatory (adj): Showing a critical or disrespectful attitude; intended to lower the reputation of a person or thing.
- He made several derogatory remarks about his opponent.
Synonyms
- Detract: To take away a part from; diminish.
- Diminish: To make or become less.
- Belittle: To represent or speak of as unimportant or of little value.
- Disparage: To regard or represent as being of little worth.
Antonyms
- Enhance: To intensify, increase, or further improve the quality, value, or extent of.
- Aggrandize: To increase the power, status, or wealth of.
- Compliment: To politely congratulate or praise someone.
Verb
- cause to seem less serious; play down
- Don't belittle his influence