disparagement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disparagement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of speaking about someone or something in a way that shows strong disapproval and lack of respect. Example: "The constant disparagement of her work made it difficult for her to feel valued in the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But as well as being illiberal, most of the alternatives would probably create more trouble and anger than they prevent.Americans in glass housesFinally and for all the disparaging talk about Londonistan, capital of Eurabia other countries, including those where the disparagement of multiculturalism is sharpest, have less to teach Britain about integration than is often assumed.

The Economist

Its games have a very long history, but also a long history of disparagement.

The Guardian

In fact, that haughty disparagement proved to be a stimulus to its circulation growth.

The Guardian

For his own safety against government attacks, he moved to eastern Afghanistan, a choice that earned him disparagement among fellow jihadists.

The Economist

Coupled with evidence from a number of dictionaries positing "redskin" to be an offensive term over these years, the majority shows that the disparagement was evident both within and outside the Native American community.How does the dissenter counter these claims?

The Economist

All the same, there are two jarring aspects to Mr Romney's caution.The first is that however you tart it up, a message of broad continuity makes a nonsense of the Grand Old Party's shrill disparagement of the incumbent president's foreign policy.

The Economist

Strands of racism can be found on the movement's fringe, but most tea-party groups have done their best to snip these off.Along with the liberal disparagement comes a dose of wishful thinking.

The Economist

But as the judge in the majority points out, "the fact that differences of opinion exist within the group does not obviate a claim of disparagement".

The Economist

Liam Fox, the shadow health secretary, recently made some silly comments about the linguistic skills of foreign doctors remarks whose tactlessness was rivalled this week by another senior Tory's disparagement of female doctors.

The Economist

Asked elsewhere whether he would remain president but stand down as army chief, he replied: "Yes and no which is either an answer, or a refusal to provide one.Yet for all his bluff disparagement of political wheeler-dealing, this appears to be General Musharraf's favourite game, and he is skilled at it.

The Economist

The army says it has resolved to "put an end" to the disparagement.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "disparagement" when you want to emphasize the act of belittling or speaking negatively about someone or something. It is particularly effective when highlighting a deliberate attempt to diminish the reputation or value of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "disparagement" when simply expressing a difference of opinion. "Disparagement" implies a stronger, often malicious intent to degrade or demean, not just a disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "disparagement" is that of a noun. It typically refers to the act of belittling or showing contempt towards someone or something. As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes the action of expressing a low opinion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "disparagement" is a noun referring to the act of belittling or showing contempt, often with the intent to undermine someone's reputation or value. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically correct and frequently used term across various contexts, particularly in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While there are semantically related alternatives like "belittlement" and "derogation", "disparagement" carries a distinct emphasis on the intentional lowering of someone's standing. When using "disparagement", ensure it aligns with situations involving deliberate efforts to degrade or demean, and avoid confusing it with mere disagreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

belittlement

Focuses more on making something seem unimportant or insignificant.

derogation

Emphasizes a lowering of someone's reputation or value.

denigration

Highlights the act of speaking damagingly about someone or something.

criticism

A more general term for expressing disapproval or pointing out faults.

censure

Implies a formal or strong disapproval.

condemnation

Suggests a severe expression of disapproval, often on moral grounds.

deprecation

Focuses on expressing disapproval of something.

slighting

Suggests treating someone with disrespect or indifference.

underestimation

Involves failing to appreciate the true value or potential of something.

vilification

Emphasizes abusive or harshly critical language.

FAQs

How is "disparagement" typically used in a sentence?

"Disparagement" is often used as a noun to describe the act of belittling or showing contempt. For example, "His "disparagement" of her achievements was uncalled for".

What are some alternatives to the word "disparagement"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "belittlement", "derogation", or "denigration" to express a similar meaning.

What's the difference between "criticism" and "disparagement"?

"Criticism" involves pointing out faults or areas for improvement, while "disparagement" goes further by aiming to diminish the value or reputation of something or someone. "Disparagement" carries a more negative connotation.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the word "disparagement"?

Use "disparagement" when describing situations where there is a clear intent to belittle, demean, or undermine the subject. It is suitable when highlighting the act of speaking negatively or contemptuously about someone or something.