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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb decry contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of decry are belittle, depreciate, and disparage. While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," decry implies open condemnation with intent to discredit.

decried their defeatist attitude

In what contexts can belittle take the place of decry?

The words belittle and decry are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude.

belittled the achievements of others

Where would depreciate be a reasonable alternative to decry?

The words depreciate and decry can be used in similar contexts, but depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed.

critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

When would disparage be a good substitute for decry?

Although the words disparage and decry have much in common, disparage implies depreciation by indirect means such as slighting or invidious comparison.

disparaged polo as a game for the rich

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of decry The project — featuring 1,000 slot machines and 50 table games, gift shops and restaurants, workforce housing and around 2,000 parking spaces — has drawn opposition for weeks as neighbors decry its potential impact on this historic mining town. John Aguilar, Denver Post, 19 Oct. 2025 Some Republicans have decried the protests as anti-American. NPR, 18 Oct. 2025 Still, the project has also been decried by many Lemon Grove residents, some of whom are even trying to recall that city’s mayor, Alysson Snow, in the wake of her vocal support for the effort. Blake Nelson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Oct. 2025 Dozens of filmmakers signed a petition decrying Mubi’s investment from Sequoia, leading to owner Efe Cakarel having to defend the company and assert an anti-war position. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decry
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decry
Verb
  • Venables was dismissed early in the next campaign following three straight defeats, but Lineker went on to net another 20 times that season, helping win the Copa del Rey under Luis Aragones.
    Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Court rules don't allow plaintiffs to submit additional evidence to counter a motion to dismiss, Alex said.
    Paul Egan, Freep.com, 23 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • In fact, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Reid Hoffman have denounced work-life balance.
    Sydney Lake, Fortune, 19 Oct. 2025
  • The Kansas Republican Party denounced the two leaders of the Kansas Young Republicans, chair Alex Dwyer and vice chair William Hendrix, for their involvement.
    Sudiksha Kochi, USA Today, 18 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Learn how to prevent gas leaks, minimize carbon monoxide risks, and safely use your gas range by following these essential tips and safety precautions.
    Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Atlanta scored first on a 38-yard field goal from Parker Romo, but that came after Huff and Sam Okuayinonu split a third-down sack to minimize a 19-play, 10 ½-minute drive.
    Cam Inman, Mercury News, 20 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • This comes almost a year after Maccabi supporters were beaten and injured in violent clashes in Amsterdam ahead of a Europa League game against Ajax, which Dutch authorities condemned as antisemitic.
    Amy Woodyatt, CNN Money, 21 Oct. 2025
  • The Minnesota Vikings condemned the vile racist message defensive back Isaiah Rodgers received following the team’s 28-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 21 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Although there may be some lingering tension between Turning Point and the Wisconsin GOP, resistance to the group is diminishing, party officials said.
    Steven Martinez, jsonline.com, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Coleman also pushed back against the notion that enthusiasm for AI diminishes the value of human work.
    Dave Smith, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The prince was widely criticized for failing to show empathy for Epstein's victims and for offering unbelievable explanations for his friendship with the disgraced financier.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 19 Oct. 2025
  • Andrew was widely criticized for failing to show empathy for Epstein’s victims and for offering unbelievable explanations for his friendship with the disgraced financier.
    CNN Money, CNN Money, 19 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • But some Republicans blamed Newsom for the freeway closure, calling it an over-reaction.
    City News Service, Oc Register, 19 Oct. 2025
  • Now, blaming the shutdown, the Education Department is trying to lay off an additional 465 people, cutting deeply into multiple offices.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 19 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Decry.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decry. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.

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