C2verbformallanguagerelationships
US/dɪˈsper.ɪdʒ/
UK/dɪˈspær.ɪdʒ/
to say that someone or something is weak, poor or of little value
In context
Politicians often disparage their rivals instead of explaining their own plans.
She never disparaged her colleagues, even when she disagreed with them.
He felt hurt when critics disparaged years of hard work as amateur.
Words that go with disparage
verb + noun
- disparage the work ofHe would never disparage the work of another writer in public.
- disparage a rivalThe candidate used the debate to disparage a rival.
adverb + verb
- publicly disparageDo not publicly disparage your former employer.
- openly disparageSome fans openly disparage the new coach.
verb + preposition
- disparage someone asCritics tried to disparage the movement as a passing fashion.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
disparage about his workCorrect: disparage his work