a derisive tone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a derisive tone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a manner of speaking that expresses contempt or ridicule. Example: "Her comments were delivered in a derisive tone, making it clear she did not take the situation seriously."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The judge, in a derisive tone, suggested that perhaps the bank and its law firm "do not want the court to confront the conflicted Ms. Stewart," according to a transcript.

The New York Times

Ms. Ralph, who came here from Antigua, said that some parents asked her, in almost a derisive tone, "Why do you do this?" Her response, she said, could not be simpler: "Because my child is there".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Putin has adopted a haughty, derisive tone toward the West.

The New Yorker

Despite his derisive tone (or perhaps because of it) Souvestre scores an impressive number of predictive hits.

The New York Times - Books

On The Spectator and then on Private Eye, he sharpened his pen and his derisive tone -- and remained curmudgeonly in character the rest of his life.

The New York Times - Arts

I wanted to flee, but the surgeon ordered me to stay so that he could narrate, in the most sarcastic and derisive tone imaginable, every remedial step; how he was obliged to insert, painstakingly, a T-tube into the previously unnicked and profoundly important common bile duct".

The New York Times - Books

On Thursday, in the derisive tones of a radio talk-show host, he said Mr. Obama's cabinet looked like Mickey Mouse and Goofy.

The New York Times

In my secular, urban and urbane world, God is rarely spoken of, except in mocking, derisive tones.

The New York Times

The Talmud the authoritative compendium of law, lore, and commentary speaks of the Boethusians in derisive tones.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In its ruling, the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council found that the slur "although lightly sarcastic in its application in the song, was not used in a 'sneering, derisive, nasty tone.' " Nevertheless, the panel concluded that any use of the word was inappropriate in today's context.

The New York Times

She made a derisive sound.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a derisive tone" when you want to clearly convey contempt or ridicule in someone's voice or manner. It is most effective when the context suggests a deliberate intent to belittle or mock.

Common error

Avoid using "a derisive tone" when the intention is merely playful sarcasm or gentle teasing. Derision carries a stronger negative connotation and implies a more severe form of contempt.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a derisive tone" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It describes the quality or characteristic of a tone, indicating that it is mocking, contemptuous, or ridiculing. Examples found by Ludwig illustrate its use in describing speech or manner.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

17%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a derisive tone" is used to describe speech or behavior marked by contempt and ridicule. As confirmed by Ludwig, this expression, while grammatically sound, appears relatively infrequently in written English. Its use is most commonly found in news and media contexts, where it serves to characterize a subject's negative attitude. Related phrases, such as "a mocking tone" or "a scornful tone", can be used as alternatives, depending on the specific shade of meaning intended. It's essential to distinguish derision from lighter forms of sarcasm to ensure accurate and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mocking tone

Focuses more on imitation and ridicule, potentially less harsh than derision.

a scornful tone

Emphasizes contempt and disdain, similar in intensity to derision.

a contemptuous tone

Highlights a feeling of superiority and disdain.

a sarcastic tone

Implies the use of irony to convey a negative sentiment.

a disdainful tone

Shows a lack of respect and a feeling of being above something.

a sneering tone

Suggests a more overt and unpleasant expression of contempt.

a ridiculing tone

Focuses specifically on making someone or something appear foolish.

a dismissive tone

Implies a rejection or disregard of something or someone.

a belittling tone

Aims to diminish the importance or value of something.

a patronizing tone

Adopts a condescending manner, implying superiority.

FAQs

How can I use "a derisive tone" in a sentence?

You can use "a derisive tone" to describe someone's speech or manner. For example: "The judge spoke in "a derisive tone", questioning the bank's motives."

What's the difference between "a derisive tone" and "a sarcastic tone"?

"A derisive tone" expresses contempt and ridicule, while "a sarcastic tone" often uses irony to convey a negative sentiment. Derision is generally harsher and more direct.

What are some alternative phrases for "a derisive tone"?

You can use alternatives such as "a mocking tone", "a scornful tone", or "a contemptuous tone" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a derisive tone" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "a derisive tone" when you want to highlight a character's or speaker's contemptuous or mocking attitude towards someone or something. Be mindful of the overall tone and purpose of your writing.