disparage

/dis'pæridʤ/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
disparage

She would never disparage a colleague's work in public.

Definition

Verb: - To speak about someone or something in a way that shows strong disapproval or a lack of respect; to belittle or degrade. - To express a negative or critical opinion, often unfairly, thereby lowering the perceived value or reputation of the subject.

Usage

The verb "disparage" is used when someone criticizes or speaks slightingly of a person, their efforts, qualities, or achievements. It implies the criticism is often unjust, harsh, or demeaning. It is a formal word. - It is typically followed by a direct object (e.g., disparage someone/something). - It is often used in contexts involving unfair comparison, undue criticism, or attempts to undermine reputation.

Examples
  • The critic's review seemed designed more to disparage the young author's work than to critique it fairly.
  • He never missed an opportunity to disparage his competitors' products during the meeting.
  • It is unprofessional to disparage your colleagues in public.
  • She felt her contributions were constantly disparaged and not valued by the team.
Advanced Usage
  • "to disparage someone/something as...": To criticize by labeling in a negative way.
    • He disparaged the proposal as "unworkable and naive."
  • Used in legal or formal contexts regarding reputation.
    • The lawsuit claimed the false statements disparaged the company's business practices.
Variants and Related Words
  • Disparagement (noun): The act of disparaging; derogatory criticism.
    • His constant disparagement of the project created a negative atmosphere.
  • Disparaging (adjective): Expressing criticism or disrespect.
    • She made several disparaging remarks about his background.
Synonyms
  • Belittle
  • Denigrate
  • Deprecate
  • Deride
  • Diminish
  • Discredit
  • Vilify
Antonyms
  • Praise
  • Commend
  • Compliment
  • Extol
  • Laud
Related Phrases and Idioms
  • "damn with faint praise": This idiom describes a related concept where criticism is delivered indirectly by giving very weak or insincere praise, which can be a form of disparagement.
    • Saying the presentation was "interesting" without further comment can sometimes damn with faint praise.
disparage

She would never disparage a colleague's work in public.

Verb
  1. express a negative opinion of
    • She disparaged her student's efforts