Synonym Chooser

How does the verb depreciate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of depreciate are belittle, decry, and disparage. While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed.

critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

When is belittle a more appropriate choice than depreciate?

While in some cases nearly identical to depreciate, belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude.

belittled the achievements of others

In what contexts can decry take the place of depreciate?

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

decried their defeatist attitude

When might disparage be a better fit than depreciate?

Although the words disparage and depreciate have much in common, disparage implies depreciation by indirect means such as slighting or invidious comparison.

disparaged polo as a game for the rich

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of depreciate As a result, software code itself is depreciating in value. Josipa Majic Predin, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024 Allowing the currency to depreciate somewhat after a strong run makes sense and demonstrates the central bank’s easing stance. Brendan Ahern, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024 Higher utilization means more customers are using the service, which eventually materializes into more profits to help cover costs on the depreciating vehicle asset. Paulina Likos, CNBC, 21 Sep. 2024 Even as Trump continues to hold on to his shares, however, the stock has depreciated considerably in recent weeks, including after his debate performance against Vice President Kamala Harris. Rocio Fabbro, Quartz, 23 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for depreciate 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for depreciate
Verb
  • Surgery can benefit from real-time AI explanations and XR visualizations to reduce patient anxiety, while oncology can simplify complex treatment plans for better decision making.
    Alon Zuckerman, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024
  • Light pollution significantly reduces visibility of meteors.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 16 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • The case was previously scheduled to go to trial in August 2025, but is now expected to be dismissed.
    Jennifer Zhan, Vulture, 14 Dec. 2024
  • The charges were later dismissed and Nifong was disbarred.
    Ben Brachfeld, People.com, 13 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Originality could be devalued, and biases embedded in AI models may perpetuate inequities or distort market dynamics.
    Ali Hoss, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024
  • Just like his neglectful father did, the scribe devalues his wife and child to chase someone else’s idea of success.
    Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 3 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Climate change exacerbates the threats with rising temperatures disrupting migration patterns and diminishing the availability of milkweed, the monarch caterpillar's essential food source.
    Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024
  • Helping to model that behavior and normalizing outreach for support is a great way to diminish the stigma.
    Subha Barry, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Through the park search, the NYPD has taken steps to minimize disruption to visitors, leading to an odd juxtaposition of joggers, tourists and an active crime scene.
    Cedar Attanasio and Michael R. Sisak, Los Angeles Times, 9 Dec. 2024
  • By emphasizing the organization’s commitment to mutual respect and shared goals, HR leaders can minimize disruptions while maximizing team effectiveness. 4.
    Melanie Hughes, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Mangione was found with a three-page handwritten manifesto criticizing the U.S. healthcare system.
    Amanda Castro, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024
  • Some civil rights advocates sharply criticized Trump’s choice.
    Julia Wick, Los Angeles Times, 11 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near depreciate

Cite this Entry

“Depreciate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/depreciate. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on depreciate

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