belittle
word
Definition
To speak about someone or something in a way that makes them seem unimportant or less valuable.
Usage & Nuances
Usually negative and formal or neutral; commonly used to criticize someone’s attitude. Common phrases: 'belittle someone's achievements', 'do not belittle yourself'. Never means 'to make smaller physically'.
Spanish: menospreciar - desestimarPortuguese (BR): menosprezar - depreciarPortuguese (PT): menosprezar - desvalorizarChinese (Simplified): 贬低 - 轻视Chinese (Traditional): 貶低 - 輕視Hindi: तुच्छ समझना - कम आंकनाArabic: يستخف - يقلل من شأن
Example Sentences
Please don't belittle my ideas in front of everyone.
basic
You should never belittle other people's efforts.
basic
His words were meant to belittle her achievements.
basic
I didn't mean to belittle your feelings—I just wanted to help.
natural
Sometimes parents belittle their kids without realizing it.
natural
If you constantly belittle yourself, people might start to believe it.
natural