CEFR B2

condescending

verb

Meaning

To behave as if one is superior to others, often by speaking or acting in a way that shows a feeling of patronizing kindness.

Examples

He always condescends to his employees, making them feel small.
She felt he was condescending when he explained the simple task to her.

Synonyms: patronize, talk down to, belittle, deign

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condescending (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˌkɒndɪˈsend/

Definition

To behave as if one is superior to others, often by speaking or acting in a way that shows a feeling of patronizing kindness.

Examples

He always condescends to his employees, making them feel small.
She felt he was condescending when he explained the simple task to her.
The teacher's tone was condescending, implying that the students were incapable of understanding.

How to Use condescending

condescend to do something (prepositional phrase): To agree to do something that one considers to be beneath one's dignity. — "The celebrity finally condescended to sign a few autographs."
condescend to someone (prepositional phrase): To behave as if one is superior to someone. — "Stop condescending to your younger sister; she's not stupid."

Synonyms of condescending

Words with a similar meaning to condescending:

Antonyms of condescending

Words with the opposite meaning to condescending:

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