What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
demean
Example
His rude comments demeaned her in front of her colleagues. [demean: verb]
Example
The way he spoke to her was demeaning and disrespectful. [demeaning: adjective]
disparage
Example
She disparaged his work in front of their boss. [disparaged: verb]
Example
His constant disparaging remarks about her intelligence were hurtful. [disparaging: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disparage is more commonly used than demean in everyday language. Disparage is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while demean is less common and has a more formal tone.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between demean and disparage?
Demean is typically associated with a more formal tone, while disparage can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
