pejorative terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pejorative terms" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing language that has a negative connotation or is intended to belittle someone or something. An example would be: "The use of pejorative terms can perpetuate stereotypes." Alternative expressions include "derogatory terms" and "insulting language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Hence the pejorative terms "stealing a nap" or "caught napping".

The New York Times

Here the artists embrace two of the most pejorative terms in modern criticism: illustration and decoration.

The New Yorker

I do not mean it in pejorative terms," she said in a recent newspaper interview.

Independent

I find it offensive that Jeremy Clarkson refers to people of different races in pejorative terms".

The Guardian

Research the origins of this and other pejorative terms that target people's nationalities.

The New York Times

I was therefore not surprised when they talked of their teachers in pejorative terms.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

MACHIAVELLIAN is usually a pejorative term.

The Economist

(That's not a pejorative term).

The New Yorker

"It's a pejorative term.

The New York Times

SUPERSTITION is typically a pejorative term.

The New York Times

He used "politics" as a pejorative term.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive topics, be specific about which "pejorative terms" you are referring to, rather than using the blanket term, to avoid generalization and potential offense.

Common error

Avoid using "pejorative terms" as a subjective judgment in academic writing. Instead, analyze the language objectively and provide evidence of its negative connotations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pejorative terms" functions as a noun phrase, where 'pejorative' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'terms'. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts to describe words or phrases with negative connotations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pejorative terms" is a noun phrase used to describe words or phrases that express negativity or disapproval. Ludwig's analysis reveals that it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Science. While the phrase itself is neutral, it's crucial to be mindful of the specific terms being discussed and the potential impact they may have. Alternatives like "derogatory terms" or "offensive terms" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

derogatory terms

Replaces 'pejorative' with 'derogatory', maintaining the same meaning of terms expressing disapproval.

offensive terms

Substitutes 'pejorative' with 'offensive', focusing on the terms' capacity to cause offense.

disparaging terms

Uses 'disparaging' instead of 'pejorative', highlighting the belittling nature of the terms.

insulting language

Rephrases to focus on the language used, rather than specific terms, emphasizing its insulting quality.

negative descriptors

Shifts the focus to the descriptive aspect, noting the terms' negative nature.

demeaning language

Highlights the demeaning effect of the language used, instead of focusing on the specific terms.

belittling terms

Emphasizes the act of making someone or something seem unimportant or small.

contemptuous terms

Highlights the expression of contempt or disdain conveyed by the terms.

unflattering terms

Focuses on the terms' tendency to present someone or something in an unfavorable light.

disapproving language

Highlights the expression of disapproval conveyed by the language.

FAQs

What are some examples of "pejorative terms"?

Examples of "pejorative terms" include slurs, insults, and any words or phrases intended to demean or belittle individuals or groups.

How do I identify "pejorative terms" in text?

Identify "pejorative terms" by considering the context, the intent behind the words, and the potential impact on the audience. Look for words that carry negative connotations or are used to stereotype or insult.

What's the difference between "pejorative terms" and offensive language?

"Pejorative terms" are a subset of offensive language. While all "pejorative terms" are offensive, not all offensive language is necessarily pejorative. "Pejorative terms" specifically aim to belittle or demean, while other offensive language may be shocking or inappropriate without necessarily intending to diminish.

What are some alternatives to using "pejorative terms" in writing?

Instead of using "pejorative terms", opt for neutral language that accurately describes the situation or behavior without resorting to insults or demeaning language. When discussing sensitive topics, consider the impact of your word choice and strive for objectivity and respect.