in derogation of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in derogation of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is being done to minimize or detract from another thing. For example: "The new regulations have been enacted in derogation of the previous ones."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

The resolution of the Senate is wholly unauthorized by the Constitution, and in derogation of its entire spirit.

The New York Times

(I used that adjective "congenital," in the sense of "habitual," in derogation of her credibility back when the world was young).

The New York Times

The decision in Tenney established that § 1983 is to be read in harmony with general principles of tort immunities and defenses rather than in derogation of them.

Cornell University

The rights described in this section are in addition to and not in derogation of any statutory, constitutional or other legal rights.

Cornell University

That is not to suggest that the attorney general may denigrate or act in derogation of individual rights to satisfy public opinion or for political considerations.

The New York Times

However, the judgment of officials duly charged with carrying out the election process should be presumed correct if reasonable and not in derogation of the law".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

During the 1990s, Puerto Rico experienced changes in access to employment due to the phased-in derogation of U.S. federal tax incentives for manufacturing firms in the island.

Princeton University

Member States may use other economic instruments as well as maintain or introduce marketing restrictions in derogation from Article 18 of this Directive.

European Parliament

There has to be something self-wounding here in this derogation of music, and I don't care that it's fallen music.

Yale University

This effect, we argue, is driven by the general role of oxytocin in increasing the salience of social agents which, in turn, may interfere with processes pertaining to derogation of out-group members during intractable conflicts.

Psychoneuroendocrinology

Publishers and booksellers are complicit with other keepers of the canon in the philistine derogation of great documentary writing by reserving the label "literature" on book jackets and store shelves only for works of fancy.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in derogation of" to clearly indicate that an action or decision weakens or contradicts a principle, law, or right. This phrase is especially effective in legal and formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "in derogation of" in informal contexts. It is better suited for legal documents, formal reports, and academic papers. In casual conversation or less formal writing, consider using simpler alternatives like "at the expense of" or "undermining".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in derogation of" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating that an action or situation undermines, weakens, or contradicts something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable and correct in English. Examples show usage across legal, academic, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

32%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Science

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in derogation of" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that something undermines, weakens, or contradicts something else, as verified by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in formal settings such as legal documents, academic papers, and business reports, it serves to express disapproval or concern about actions that detract from established principles or rights. While grammatically sound, it should be used judiciously in less formal contexts, where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. The most authoritative sources like The New York Times and Cornell University frequently employ this phrase, underscoring its formal register and precise meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to the detriment of

Replaces the legalistic tone with a more general expression of harm or disadvantage.

at the expense of

Indicates that something is sacrificed or lost in order to achieve something else.

counter to

A more concise way of indicating opposition or conflict.

in contradiction to

Emphasizes the direct opposition or conflict with something else.

in opposition to

Indicates a stance of being against or contrary to something.

in violation of

Highlights the breaking of a rule, law, or agreement.

in defiance of

Suggests a deliberate resistance or challenge to something.

undermining

Uses a verb to convey the action of weakening or diminishing something.

compromising

Implies a reduction in quality, value, or integrity.

notwithstanding

Implies that something is true despite something else. Less direct replacement but conveys the act of superseding something.

FAQs

How to use "in derogation of" in a sentence?

Use "in derogation of" to indicate that something is being diminished or weakened by another action or decision. For example: "The new policy was implemented "in derogation of" existing safety regulations."

What can I say instead of "in derogation of"?

You can use alternatives like "to the detriment of", "at the expense of", or "in violation of" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "in derogation of" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "in derogation of" is more suited for formal or legal writing. In informal contexts, consider using simpler phrases like "at the expense of" or "undermining".

What is the difference between "in derogation of" and "in violation of"?

"In derogation of" suggests a weakening or diminishing effect, while "in violation of" implies a direct contravention or breach of a rule or law. The former is less direct and may not necessarily constitute a complete breach.