What is the Opposite(Antonym) of “flattery”?

The Opposite(Antonym) of “flattery”

The antonyms of flattery are criticism and insult. While flattery means excessive praise or compliments, criticism and insult convey negative feedback or disapproval.

Explore all Antonyms of “flattery”

• criticism
• insult

Definitions and Examples of criticism, insult

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

criticism

The act of expressing disapproval or negative feedback about someone or something.

Example

She received a lot of criticism for her poor performance in the exam.

insult

A disrespectful or offensive remark or action towards someone.

Example

He took it as an insult when his boss criticized his work in front of everyone.

Key Differences: criticism vs insult

• 1. Criticism is a more neutral term that refers to expressing disapproval or negative feedback.
• 2. Insult is a more severe term that refers to a disrespectful or offensive remark or action towards someone.

Effective Usage of criticism, insult

• 1. Giving Feedback: Use criticism to provide constructive feedback to help someone improve.
• 2. Avoiding Offense: Use criticism instead of insult to express disapproval without being disrespectful.
• 3. Handling Conflict: Use insult to describe a disrespectful or offensive remark or action towards someone.

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Remember this!

While flattery means excessive praise or compliments, criticism and insult convey negative feedback or disapproval. Use criticism to provide constructive feedback, avoid offense, and handle conflicts. Use insult to describe a disrespectful or offensive remark or action towards someone.