Synonyms of belittle

belittle

verb

bi-ˈli-tᵊl 

as in to dismiss

to express scornfully one's low opinion of

belittled the action star's acting ability

Synonyms & Similar Words

• dismiss
• minimize
• diminish
• disparage
• denigrate
• criticize
• derogate
• diss
• depreciate
• deprecate
• decry
• bad-mouth
• denounce
• run down
• discount
• condemn
• talk down
• dislike
• discredit
• play down
• dump on
• cry down
• scold
• trash-talk
• write off
• dis
• poor-mouth
• put down
• trash
• vilipend
• kiss off
• vilify
• defame
• malign
• abuse
• slander
• disapprove (of)
• disgrace
• censure
• discommend
• asperse
• slur
• traduce
• reprehend
• rip
• reprobate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• exalt
• applaud
• glorify
• extol
• praise
• laud
• magnify
• recommend
• endorse
• approve
• favor
• acclaim
• indorse
• sanction
• commend
• countenance
• extoll
• compliment
• eulogize

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb belittle contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of belittle are decry, depreciate, and disparage. While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude.

belittled the achievements of others

In what contexts can decry take the place of belittle?

The words decry and belittle are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, decry implies open condemnation with intent to discredit.

decried their defeatist attitude

Where would depreciate be a reasonable alternative to belittle?

Although the words depreciate and belittle have much in common, depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed.

critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

When could disparage be used to replace belittle?

While the synonyms disparage and belittle are close in meaning, disparage implies depreciation by indirect means such as slighting or invidious comparison.

disparaged polo as a game for the rich

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of belittle

Prior to her tragic death, Toussaint had reclaimed her power, announcing her intent to divorce her belittling husband and address her people with honesty. —Nicole Briese, People.com, 22 Aug. 2025

Giants rookie Abdul Carter belittled the Jets on Sunday while mocking the first lowlight of his NFL career. —Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 18 Aug. 2025

Borgman chronicles how the show focused on entertainment over health and how contestants were belittled and encouraged to follow unhealthy weight loss methods, including consuming caffeine pills. —Addie Morfoot, Variety, 15 Aug. 2025

The complaint alleges that Santiago belittled, stalked and harassed Ortiz in front of other students and teachers. —Laura Tillman, Hartford Courant, 12 Aug. 2025