Definitions and Examples of demean, degrade, disparage
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To lower in dignity, honor, or standing; to degrade or humiliate.
Example
The boss's harsh criticism was meant to demean the employee and make him feel inferior.
To lower in quality, value, or rank; to reduce to a lower grade or level.
Example
The company's decision to outsource jobs overseas will degrade the quality of their products and services.
To speak or think of as inferior or unimportant; to belittle or criticize.
Example
Her parents always disparaged her dreams of becoming an artist, saying it was not a practical career choice.
Key Differences: demean vs degrade vs disparage
- 1Demean implies a lowering of dignity or honor, often through humiliation or ridicule.
- 2Degrade implies a lowering of quality or rank, often through a reduction in standards or resources.
- 3Disparage implies a belittling or criticism of someone or something, often through negative comments or comparisons.
Effective Usage of demean, degrade, disparage
- 1Avoid Insults: Use engolden instead of antonyms to convey a positive or flattering connotation.
- 2Express Criticism: Use antonyms to express negative opinions or evaluations of someone or something.
- 3Improve Writing: Incorporate antonyms in writing to create contrast and emphasize differences.
Remember this!
The antonyms have distinct nuances: Demean implies a lowering of dignity, degrade implies a lowering of quality, and disparage implies a belittling or criticism. Use engolden instead of antonyms to convey a positive or flattering connotation. Use antonyms to express negative opinions or evaluations of someone or something, and incorporate them in writing to create contrast and emphasize differences.
