reduce (something) in quality or value; degrade, lower the moral character of (someone)

debase oneself, debase currency, debase the tone

Formal and Informal Expressions of debase

In different contexts, you can replace 'debase' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'degrade, lower' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'bring down, take down' is a commonplace synonym.

debase: Explore its Definition & Usage

debase Definition

1reduce (something) in quality or value; degrade
2lower the moral character of (someone)

Using debase: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "debase" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The company's decision to use cheap materials debased the product.
Example
His behavior debased his reputation among his colleagues.
Example
The politician's lies debased the integrity of the election.
Example
The comedian's jokes debased the audience's intelligence.

debase Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for debase

Antonyms for debase

Phrases with debase

debase oneself
to act in a way that lowers one's dignity or self-respect
Example
He debased himself by groveling for the job.
debase currency
to reduce the value of a currency by reducing the amount of precious metal in its coins or notes
Example
The government was accused of debasing the currency by printing too much money.
debase the tone
to lower the level of discourse or conversation
Example
The shouting match between the candidates debased the tone of the debate.

Origins of debase

from Old French 'debas', meaning 'to lower'

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Summary: debase in Brief

To 'debase' [dɪˈbeɪs] is to reduce the quality or value of something, as in 'The company's decision to use cheap materials debased the product.' It can also refer to lowering the moral character of someone, as in 'His behavior debased his reputation among his colleagues.' 'Debase' extends into phrases like 'debase oneself,' and 'debase the tone,' denoting a lowering of dignity or discourse.