snidely
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb: - In a scornful, mocking, or derogatory manner, often implying a sense of superiority and contempt. It describes how a critical or insulting remark is delivered.
Usage and Examples
The adverb snidely is used to modify a verb (typically a verb of speaking) to describe the manner in which a sneering or disparaging comment is made.
- She remarked snidely that my idea was "adorably naive."
- "Well, that's one way to do it," he said snidely, making his disapproval clear.
- The critic reviewed the film snidely, focusing only on its minor flaws.
Advanced Usage and Nuance
Snidely often implies that the criticism is indirect, sly, or delivered with a false smile, making it seem particularly mean-spirited or underhanded. It carries a strong negative connotation about the speaker's character.
- He offered his congratulations snidely, leaving everyone unsure if he was sincere or mocking.
Variants and Related Words
- Snide (Adjective): Describing the remark or comment itself as scornful and derogatory.
- She made a snide comment about his clothes.
- Sneeringly (Adverb): A close synonym, often used interchangeably with snidely.
- Snarkily (Adverb): Informal; similar to snidely but can sometimes imply a more witty or sarcastic edge.
Synonyms
- Sneeringly
- Derisively
- Contemptuously
- Sarcastically
- Scornfully
Antonyms
- Sincerely
- Complimentarily
- Respectfully
- Admiringly
Adverb
- with a sneer; in an uncomplimentary sneering manner
- `I don't believe in these customs,' he said sneeringly