disparage

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb disparage contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of disparage are belittle, decry, and depreciate. While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," disparage implies depreciation by indirect means such as slighting or invidious comparison.

disparaged polo as a game for the rich

When might belittle be a better fit than disparage?

The meanings of belittle and disparage largely overlap; however, belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude.

belittled the achievements of others

When is decry a more appropriate choice than disparage?

The synonyms decry and disparage are sometimes interchangeable, but decry implies open condemnation with intent to discredit.

decried their defeatist attitude

When is it sensible to use depreciate instead of disparage?

While the synonyms depreciate and disparage are close in meaning, depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed.

critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

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 disparage Despite a disparaging 1-3 start to the year for Florida, SEC Network’s College GameDay equivalent, SEC Nation, set up camp in GainesvilleSaturday. Noah White, Miami Herald, 5 Oct. 2025 Many actors have disparaged the move on social media, in comments on Deadline’s story, as well as through their own social media channels and comments to the press. Dave Smith, Fortune, 1 Oct. 2025 The video also dubs Schumer saying disparaging things about his party. Ivan Pereira, ABC News, 1 Oct. 2025 Shooter was Iraq veteran who disparaged LDS church The man police say committed the attack, Thomas Sanford, 40, had served in the Marines and worked as a mechanic in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Zoe Sottile, CNN Money, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for disparage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparage
Verb
  • The Biden administration dismissed the lawsuit, and prosecutors dropped a grand jury investigation the following year.
    NPR, NPR, 17 Oct. 2025
  • The revelation immediately erupted into a political crisis, with the head of prisons dismissed and Guatemalans threatening to protest.
    New York Times, New York Times, 16 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
  • 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
  • The publication is choosing to praise Trump slightly while denigrating his appearance as well.
    Nicole Russell, USA Today, 16 Oct. 2025
  • That’s not to denigrate Punch, which is solidly built and well-meaning without sanctimony.
    Sara Holdren, Vulture, 30 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Link was captured on Ring camera footage mocking and belittling Jimenez after shooting him, Bergida said.
    Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 2025
  • That conflict comes to a head in the middle of campus in the film’s most intense scene, as Alma verbally belittles and demeans her until Maggie snaps and suddenly smacks her mentor.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 15 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Disparage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparage. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

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