Definition

Noun: 1. A feeling of being of little worth: The act or habit of undervaluing oneself; a tendency to belittle or disparage one's own abilities, qualities, or worth.

Usage

Self-depreciation is used to describe a critical and negative attitude a person holds toward their own value or capabilities. It often manifests in speech or behavior where an individual minimizes their achievements or attributes. It is a formal term related to concepts of self-esteem and self-perception.

Examples

• Her constant self-depreciation made it difficult for others to compliment her genuine accomplishments.
• The interview was marred by his excessive self-depreciation, which undermined the confidence of the hiring panel.
• While humility is a virtue, chronic self-depreciation can be harmful to one's mental health.

Advanced Usage

• Psychological Context: In psychology, persistent self-depreciation is often discussed as a symptom or feature of conditions like depression or anxiety disorders.
• Rhetorical Device: In a more specific, often humorous context, a form of self-depreciation can be used intentionally as a rhetorical strategy to appear modest, relatable, or to disarm criticism.

Variants and Related Words

• Self-deprecating (adj): Characterized by belittling or undervaluing oneself. (e.g., )
• Self-deprecation (noun): Often used interchangeably with , though is more commonly used, especially for humor. (e.g., )
• Self-depreciatory (adj): Serving to depreciate oneself. (A less common variant.)

Synonyms

• Self-disparagement
• Self-belittlement
• Lack of self-esteem
• Inferiority complex (a more clinical term for a deep-seated feeling)

Antonyms

• Self-confidence
• Self-assurance
• Self-esteem
• Pride

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To sell oneself short: To undervalue one's own skills or worth, closely related to the concept of self-depreciation.
  • You have a great portfolio; don't sell yourself short in the negotiation.

Noun

1. a feeling of being of little worth