What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
derogation
Example
His constant derogation of her work was demotivating. [derogation: noun]
Example
The article's derogatory tone towards the subject matter was disappointing. [derogatory: adjective]
degradation
Example
The degradation of the environment is a growing concern. [degradation: noun]
Example
The company's financial situation continued to degrade over the years. [degrade: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Degradation is more commonly used than derogation in everyday language. Degradation is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while derogation is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between derogation and degradation?
Both derogation and degradation can be used in formal and informal contexts, but degradation is more commonly used in scientific or technical writing, giving it a more formal connotation.