What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
derogatory
Example
He made derogatory comments about her appearance. [derogatory: adjective]
Example
The article was filled with derogatory statements about the politician. [derogatory: adjective]
pejorative
Example
The term 'old maid' is considered pejorative by some people. [pejorative: adjective]
Example
She used a pejorative term to describe his behavior. [pejorative: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Derogatory is more commonly used than pejorative in everyday language. Derogatory is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pejorative is less common and more formal in tone.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between derogatory and pejorative?
Pejorative is more formal and academic in tone than derogatory. While both words can be used in formal contexts, pejorative is more likely to be used in academic or professional settings.
