What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
demeaning
Example
His demeaning comments towards his coworkers made the work environment toxic. [demeaning: adjective]
Example
She felt demeaned by her boss's constant criticism and lack of recognition. [demean: verb]
degrading
Example
The degrading treatment of prisoners in the detention center was a violation of human rights. [degrading: adjective]
Example
He felt degraded by the way his colleagues talked about him behind his back. [degrade: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Demeaning is more commonly used in everyday language, while degrading is more commonly used in formal or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between demeaning and degrading?
Degrading is more formal than demeaning, and it is often used in academic or legal contexts to describe situations that violate human rights or dignity.
