What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
badmouth
Example
She always badmouths her ex-boyfriend, saying terrible things about him. [badmouth: verb]
Example
He was upset when he heard his colleagues badmouthing him behind his back. [badmouthing: gerund or present participle]
disparage
Example
The coach disparaged the team's efforts, saying they were not good enough. [disparage: verb]
Example
She felt hurt when her classmates disparaged her artwork, calling it amateurish. [disparaged: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Badmouth is more commonly used in everyday language, especially in casual conversations or gossip. On the other hand, disparage is less common but can be used in both formal and informal contexts, including professional or academic settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between badmouth and disparage?
While badmouth is associated with a more informal and colloquial tone, disparage is considered more formal and can be used in various contexts, including professional or academic settings.
