What is disparage? Pronunciation and usage in English

disparage means . Learn how to pronounce and use disparage through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of disparage

disparageverb

/dɪˈspærɪdʒ//dɪˈspærɪdʒ/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "disparage." It's a tricky one for many English speakers! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

The word is generally broken down into three syllables:

  • dis- (like "dish")
  • par- (like "part")
  • age (rhymes with "page")

2. Pronunciation:

Here's the most common and accurate pronunciation, using phonetic symbols (which can be harder to read, but are more precise):

  • /dɪˈspærɪdʒ/

Let's break that down further:

  • dɪ: As in "dish" – a short, quick “i” sound.
  • ˈspær: This is the stressed syllable. The “ær” sound is crucial. It's a blend of "air" and "are," but with the "r" at the end – it's a short, quick "er" sound as in "car."
  • ɪdʒ: This is the "дж" sound, as in "judge" or "bridge." It’s a short “i” followed by the “дж” sound.

3. Putting it All Together:

Try saying it slowly and then faster:

  • Dɪ - spær - ɪdʒ

4. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't drop the "r" in "par." This is a very common mistake. The "r" is subtle but important.
  • Stress the second syllable. Make sure "par" is emphasized.
  • The “дж” sound is key. Practice that sound if it's unfamiliar to you.

Resources for Hearing it:

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  • Give you some example sentences using the word “disparage”?
  • Focus on a specific part of the pronunciation, like the "дж" sound?

Usage and examples with the word disparage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "disparage." It's a slightly formal word with a specific meaning.

1. Definition:

"Disparage" means to belittle, criticize, or speak slightingly of something or someone. It implies a lowering of esteem or value. It’s more than just disagreeing; it’s actively trying to make something seem less important or worthy.

2. Parts of Speech:

  • Verb: This is the most common usage. (e.g., "He disparaged her ideas.")
  • Noun: (Less common) It can also be a noun referring to the act of belittling: "His disparagement of the project was hurtful."

3. How to Use It - Examples:

  • Describing actions:

    • “The critic disparaged the film’s special effects, calling them ‘cheap and unrealistic.’” (He actively criticized them.)
    • “Don’t disparage his efforts; he worked incredibly hard.” (He’s trying to make his efforts seem unimportant.)
    • “She disparaged his choice of clothing, saying it was inappropriate for the occasion.” (She’s belittling his choice.)

  • Describing opinions or attitudes:

    • “He has a tendency to disparage anything he doesn't understand.” (He consistently lowers the value of things he doesn't grasp.)
    • “It’s important not to disparage the value of traditional knowledge.” (Don’t criticize or belittle it.)

4. Synonyms:

Here are some words that have similar meanings, but might feel slightly different in nuance:

  • Criticize: A general term for expressing disapproval.
  • Belittle: To make someone or something seem unimportant.
  • Denigrate: To speak negatively about someone, often in a deliberate way.
  • Deride: To laugh at in a scornful way.
  • Disparage: To downgrade; to treat as worthless.

5. Important Considerations:

  • Tone: "Disparage" carries a somewhat negative tone. Using it can be perceived as harsh or condescending. Consider whether a milder word might be more appropriate.

  • Context: The context of your sentence is crucial. Make sure it’s clear that you’re belittling something, not simply expressing a different opinion.

  • Formal vs. Informal: It’s a more formal word. You’d likely use it in writing, academic discussions, or more serious conversations. In casual conversation, you'd probably use a word like "criticize" or "dismiss."

Example Demonstrating the Difference:

  • Instead of: "I disagree with his plan." (Neutral)
  • Try: "I have concerns about his plan." (More constructive)
  • Instead of: "He disparaged the plan, saying it was a waste of time." (Negative and belittling)

Resources for Further Learning:

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  • Give you more examples of usage?
  • Help you understand how it’s used in a specific sentence?
  • Compare it to another similar word?

Synonyms for the word disparage

Practice with vocabulary disparage

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. It is unethical for a competitor to publicly ______ a rival's products without factual basis.
  2. The board decided to ______ the new policy due to overwhelming negative feedback from employees.
  3. Despite her impressive track record, some colleagues continued to ______ her achievements, attributing them to luck.
  4. Before making a final decision, it's important to ______ all available options thoroughly.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following actions would be considered unprofessional in a team meeting? A) Offering constructive criticism B) Actively listening to others C) Disparaging a colleague's ideas D) Suggesting alternative solutions

  2. Select the words that describe the act of speaking negatively or showing contempt towards someone or something. A) Commend B) Criticize C) Applaud D) Disparage E) Belittle

  3. The journalist faced severe backlash for attempting to ______ the character of the whistle-blower without verifiable evidence. A) Laud B) Uphold C) Disparage D) Vindicating

  4. Choose the word that best describes the act of resolving a disagreement through mutual concessions. A) Compromise B) Contend C) Concede D) Confront

  5. The manager had to ______ the team about the importance of adhering to strict deadlines. A) Admonish B) Endorse C) Extol D) Validate

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. It is important not to speak ill of other people's efforts, even if you disagree with them. (Use "disparage")
  2. His constant put-downs of her work created a hostile environment. (Use a related word form of "disparage")
  3. The company's new advertising campaign intentionally made its rival's products seem inferior. (Do not use "disparage"; use a suitable replacement word)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. disparage
  2. rescind
  3. disparage
  4. evaluate

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. C) Disparaging a colleague's ideas
  2. B) Criticize, D) Disparage, E) Belittle
  3. C) Disparage
  4. A) Compromise
  5. A) Admonish

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. It is important not to disparage other people's efforts, even if you disagree with them.
  2. His constant disparagement of her work created a hostile environment.
  3. The company's new advertising campaign intentionally denigrated its rival's products.

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