Disparage
hardNegative tonedih-SPAR-ij
verb
Definition
To regard or represent as being of little worth; to belittle
Memory hook
DIS-PAR-AGE: treat as NOT an equal (par) — to belittle and speak of with disrespect.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Rivals sought to disparage his achievements at every opportunity.”
“She refused to disparage her predecessor's work.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Rivals sought to ______ his achievements at every opportunity.”
Show answer
disparage
Categories
GRE Tip
Disparage is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "belittle" or "denigrate" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "extol".
Related GRE Words
denigrate
To criticize unfairly; to disparage or belittle
vilify
To speak or write about in an abusively disparaging manner
deprecate
to express strong disapproval of; to belittle
castigate
To criticize or reprimand severely
decry
To publicly denounce or criticize
diatribe
A forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something
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