Synonyms of belittle

belittle

verb

bi-ˈli-tᵊl 

as in to dismiss

to express scornfully one's low opinion of

belittled the action star's acting ability

Synonyms & Similar Words

• dismiss
• minimize
• diminish
• disparage
• denigrate
• criticize
• derogate
• diss
• depreciate
• deprecate
• decry
• bad-mouth
• denounce
• run down
• discount
• condemn
• talk down
• dislike
• discredit
• play down
• dump on
• cry down
• scold
• trash-talk
• write off
• dis
• poor-mouth
• put down
• trash
• vilipend
• kiss off
• vilify
• defame
• malign
• abuse
• slander
• disapprove (of)
• disgrace
• censure
• discommend
• asperse
• slur
• traduce
• reprehend
• rip
• reprobate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• exalt
• applaud
• glorify
• extol
• praise
• laud
• magnify
• recommend
• endorse
• approve
• favor
• acclaim
• indorse
• sanction
• commend
• countenance
• extoll
• compliment
• eulogize

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb belittle contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of belittle are decry, depreciate, and disparage. While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude.

belittled the achievements of others

In what contexts can decry take the place of belittle?

The words decry and belittle are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, decry implies open condemnation with intent to discredit.

decried their defeatist attitude

Where would depreciate be a reasonable alternative to belittle?

Although the words depreciate and belittle have much in common, depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed.

critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

When could disparage be used to replace belittle?

While the synonyms disparage and belittle are close in meaning, disparage implies depreciation by indirect means such as slighting or invidious comparison.

disparaged polo as a game for the rich

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of belittle

In interviews on Wednesday, Democratic operatives — some of whom worked for the former president — and donors echoed Vale’s sentiments, underscoring that Obama shouldn’t belittle himself and engage with Trump. —Amie Parnes, The Hill, 24 July 2025

If Trump’s current hostility to alliances continues and the administration keeps insulting, belittling, and even economically harming its long-standing partners, the United States is going to find the world an increasingly unfriendly place. —Margaret MacMillan, Foreign Affairs, 21 July 2025

Gladys is struggling to adjust to her new life overseas, with absolutely no help from Lady Sarah, who only opens her mouth to belittle Gladys. —Andy Swift, TVLine, 20 July 2025

The problem is not just that Trump himself belittles intelligence. —David V. Gioe, Foreign Affairs, 2 July 2025