derogatory remark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "derogatory remark" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a comment that belittles or insults someone or something. Example: "His derogatory remark about her appearance was completely uncalled for and hurtful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

I didn't use a derogatory remark.

The New Yorker

(I've omitted a more derogatory remark).

The New Yorker

However, Cambridge University students themselves didn't appear to be offended by the derogatory remark.

Independent

Winfield would not have appreciated the derogatory remark whenever it was uttered.

The New York Times - Sports

They created a presumption that any derogatory remark made about a gentleman must be false.

The Guardian - Opinion

You overhear someone making a derogatory remark that may possibly have been about you.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Derogatory remarks about the prophet Muhammad became a capital offence.

The Economist

Schumer has a history of confronting sexist or derogatory remarks.

The Guardian

Thirdly, she made derogatory remarks in her novel about her line manager.

Independent

"His derogatory remarks deserve to be condemned and he will be sanctioned".

Independent

It can't be said they have made any derogatory remarks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When reporting a "derogatory remark", be precise about the context and the target to avoid misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid stating that a "derogatory remark" was generally offensive without specifying the group or individual it targeted. Clarity is crucial to avoid misrepresenting the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "derogatory remark" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "derogatory" modifies the noun "remark". It's used to describe a comment or statement that is insulting, disrespectful, or expresses a negative opinion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

4%

Academia

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "derogatory remark" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an insulting or disrespectful statement. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is usable in written English. Its frequent use in news, media, and formal business contexts underscores its importance in identifying and addressing offensive communication. While alternatives like "insulting comment" or "disparaging statement" exist, "derogatory remark" maintains a clear and direct way to categorize a negative statement, making it a valuable term in discussions about language and its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insulting comment

Replaces "remark" with "comment" and "derogatory" with "insulting", emphasizing the offensive nature.

disparaging statement

Substitutes "remark" with "statement" and "derogatory" with "disparaging", conveying a sense of belittlement.

offensive comment

Replaces "derogatory" with "offensive", highlighting the causing of displeasure or resentment.

pejorative term

Focuses on the use of a term or label intended to disparage.

defamatory statement

Emphasizes the damaging nature of the statement to someone's reputation.

slighting remark

Highlights the act of disrespect or insult.

critical comment

Focuses on expressing disapproval.

negative statement

Indicates the expression of unfavorable opinions.

unflattering observation

Subtly suggests a negative portrayal without explicit insult.

demeaning comment

Highlights the act of lowering someone's dignity.

FAQs

What's another way to say "derogatory remark"?

Alternatives include "insulting comment", "disparaging statement", or "offensive comment", depending on the context.

What makes a remark "derogatory"?

A remark is considered "derogatory" when it expresses a low opinion or intends to show disrespect toward someone or something.

How can I respond to a "derogatory remark"?

The appropriate response to a "derogatory remark" varies by situation, but options include ignoring it, addressing it directly with the speaker, or reporting it to authorities if it violates policies or laws.

Is there a difference between a "derogatory remark" and a "negative comment"?

While both express disapproval, a "derogatory remark" is intentionally disrespectful or belittling, whereas a "negative comment" may simply express disagreement or criticism without the intent to offend.