C2adverbformalemotionslanguage
US/dɪˈraɪ.sɪv.li/
UK/dɪˈraɪ.sɪv.li/
in a way that shows you think someone or something is stupid or worth nothing
In context
The crowd laughed derisively when the minister promised lower prices.
"Is that your best idea?" he asked derisively.
She snorted derisively and turned back to her work.
Words that go with derisively
verb + adverb
- laugh derisivelyThe fans laughed derisively at the referee.
- snort derisivelyHe snorted derisively at the suggestion.
- speak derisivelyShe spoke derisively of her rivals.
- smile derisivelyThe old man smiled derisively and shook his head.
adverb + verb
- derisively callCritics derisively called the plan a fantasy.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He laughed derisive at me.Correct: He laughed derisively at me.