What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
condescending
Example
She spoke to me in a condescending tone, as if I was a child. [condescending: adjective]
Example
He always talks down to his employees, which is very condescending. [condescending: adjective]
patronizing
Example
I hate it when he speaks to me in a patronizing tone, as if I don't know anything. [patronizing: adjective]
Example
She always acts so patronizing towards her coworkers, which is really annoying. [patronizing: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Condescending is more commonly used than patronizing in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between condescending and patronizing?
Both condescending and patronizing are informal words and are not appropriate for formal situations.
