Definition

1. Noun:
   • (Law) The partial taking away of the effectiveness of a law; a partial repeal or abolition of a law. It refers to a legal act that reduces or limits the scope or authority of a law without completely nullifying it.
   • A communication that belittles somebody or something; disparagement. It refers to an act or instance of expressing a low opinion of someone or something, detracting from their merit or reputation.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Legal Sense):

  • The new statute was a clear derogation from the principles of the original constitution.
  • Any derogation of fundamental human rights must be justified by exceptional circumstances.

• Noun (Disparagement Sense):

  • His constant derogation of his colleagues created a hostile work environment.
  • The article was seen as a derogation of the artist's entire body of work.

Advanced Usage

• "In derogation of": This formal phrase is used to indicate that something acts against or diminishes something else, especially a right, law, or principle.
  • The contract clause was held to be in derogation of common law rights.
  • He acted in derogation of his duty as a trustee.

Variants and Related Words

• Derogate (verb): To detract from; to disparage or belittle. Also, in law, to partially repeal or restrict.
  • It is unprofessional to derogate a competitor's products.
• Derogatory (adjective): Showing a critical or disrespectful attitude; intended to belittle.
  • She made several derogatory remarks about his background.
• Derogative (adjective): Another, less common, form meaning disparaging or derogatory.

Synonyms

• Diminution: The act of lessening or reducing (closer to the legal sense).
• Disparagement: The act of speaking about someone or something in a belittling way.
• Detraction: The act of taking away from merit or reputation.
• Aspersion: A damaging or derogatory remark or criticism.

Antonyms

• Enhancement: An increase or improvement in quality, value, or extent.
• Compliment: A polite expression of praise or admiration.
• Endorsement: An act of giving one's support or approval.
• Affirmation: The action or process of affirming something or someone.

Related Phrases

• Derogation from a standard: A deviation or fall below an accepted norm or benchmark.
  • The poor materials used were a derogation from the company's usual quality standards.
• Derogation of sovereignty: A term in international law referring to an act that diminishes a state's sovereign authority.
  • Signing the treaty was not considered a derogation of national sovereignty.

Noun

1. (law) the partial taking away of the effectiveness of a law; a partial repeal or abolition of a law
   • any derogation of the common law is to be strictly construed
2. a communication that belittles somebody or something