Definition

Having a tendency to reduce in value or worth, often used to describe something that is viewed negatively or with disapproval.

Example

The depreciative comments about the project made the team feel undervalued.

Conversation

I heard someone say that his comments were quite depreciative about the new project.

Really? That seems a bit harsh for something still in development.

Yeah, I think being depreciative doesn't help anyone improve their work.

Absolutely, constructive criticism is always better than negativity.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Depreciative → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "pretium" (meaning price or value) combined with the suffix "-ative" (indicating a tendency or quality). The word describes a tendency to lower or diminish the value of something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'down' ('de-') and 'value' ('pretium') to remember that 'depreciative' means something that tends to lower value.

Visually Confused Words