What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
trivialize
Example
Don't trivialize the impact of bullying on a child's mental health. [trivialize: verb]
Example
The media often trivializes the effects of climate change. [trivializes: present tense]
belittle
Example
He belittled her efforts to learn a new language. [belittled: past tense]
Example
She felt belittled by her boss's constant criticism. [belittled: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Belittle is more commonly used than trivialize in everyday language. Belittle is often used in situations involving people or their achievements, while trivialize can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between trivialize and belittle?
Both trivialize and belittle are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts. However, belittle has a stronger negative connotation and may be considered more informal or even offensive in some situations.
