Meaning of Condescension
The attitude of regarding others as inferior; superiority complex.
In simple words: Talking down to someone or showing that you think you're better than them.
Condescension in a sentence
- Her condescension during the meeting upset many of the team members.
- He spoke with such condescension that it made her feel small.
- The condescension in his voice was unmistakable when he addressed the audience.
- She couldn't stand his condescension toward her ideas.
- For some, condescension is a natural part of their leadership style.
How to use Condescension
Use in professional or academic contexts when discussing attitudes or behaviors. Avoid in casual conversations as it can be perceived as accusatory.
Grammar pattern
noun
Memory hint
Think of 'con' for negative and 'descend' as looking down on someone.
Related words
Collocations with Condescension
- show condescension
- condescension toward
- speak with condescension
- condescension disguised as politeness
Synonyms for Condescension
- patronization
- superciliousness
- arrogance
- disdain
- snobbery
Opposites of Condescension
- respect
- humility
Common mistakes with Condescension
- Confusing condescension with kindness; condescension implies superiority.
- Using it in informal contexts; it's more suited for formal discussions.
- Mispronouncing; the stress is on the second syllable.
Condescension appears in
Condescension in other languages
More words like Condescension
- Arrogance
- It is what it is
A phrase used to express acceptance of a situation without trying to change it.
- I know what this is
A phrase expressing certainty about the identity or nature of something.
- Have you seen this
A question asking someone if they have previously looked at or noticed something.
- I've seen one before
To indicate familiarity with something previously encountered.
- It belonged to a man
Indicates possession, signifying that something is owned by a male person.
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Frequently asked questions about Condescension
What does Condescension mean?
Talking down to someone or showing that you think you're better than them.
What is the definition of Condescension?
The attitude of regarding others as inferior; superiority complex.
How do you use Condescension in a sentence?
Her condescension during the meeting upset many of the team members.
Can you give another example of Condescension?
He spoke with such condescension that it made her feel small.
What are synonyms for Condescension?
Common alternatives include patronization, superciliousness, arrogance, disdain, snobbery.
What is the opposite of Condescension?
Opposite meanings include respect, humility.
What words go with Condescension?
It commonly pairs with show condescension, condescension toward, speak with condescension, condescension disguised as politeness.
What are common mistakes when using Condescension?
Confusing condescension with kindness; condescension implies superiority. Using it in informal contexts; it's more suited for formal discussions. Mispronouncing; the stress is on the second syllable.
How do you pronounce Condescension?
US: //ˌkɑːndɪˈsɛnʃən//, UK: //ˌkɒndɪˈsɛnʃən//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
Is Condescension formal or informal?
"Condescension" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.
When should I use Condescension?
Use in professional or academic contexts when discussing attitudes or behaviors. Avoid in casual conversations as it can be perceived as accusatory.
