disparaging
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪsˈpærɪdʒɪŋ/
KK: /dɪsˈpɛrɪdʒɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Showing a lack of respect or belittling someone or something.
Example
His disparaging remarks about her work were hurtful.
Conversation
Did you hear what he said about her presentation?
Yeah, it was pretty disparaging and uncalled for.
I know, right? It's like he doesn't appreciate her hard work at all.
Exactly! It's frustrating to see people be so negative.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
derogatory
belittling
scornful
Antonyms
praising
complimentary
admiring
verb
Definition
To speak about someone or something in a way that shows you think they are not good or important.
Example
He made a disparaging remark about her work during the meeting.
Tense Forms
Past: disparaged
Past Participle: disparaged
Conversation
I heard someone disparaging our team's chances of winning.
Really? That's just negative talk; we have a solid chance.
Yeah, I hate when people disparaging our efforts without knowing the whole story.
Root Explanation
Disparaging → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "parage" (from Latin "parare", meaning to prepare or make equal). The word refers to the act of speaking about someone or something in a way that shows a lack of respect, effectively putting them apart from others by diminishing their worth.
Memory Tip
Think of 'dis-' meaning apart and 'parage' relating to equality — disparaging means to speak in a way that puts someone apart from others by belittling them.
Visually Confused Words
nondisparaging
discharging
disarming