Words / C1

di-ROG-uh-tree/dɪˈrɒɡətri/

Derogatory means showing a low opinion; insulting: derogatory remarks, a derogatory term. Insulting is everyday; pejorative is a close academic cousin (a pejorative label); abusive is stronger. Derogatory about / towards are the patterns. In speech, rude or insulting is enough. Use it for language that puts people down, not for a tough but fair critique of an argument.

Meaning

Showing a low opinion; insulting.

Examples

• “Do not use derogatory names for learners.”
• “Do not use derogatory names for learners, even as a “joke.””
• “The footnote was sharp; it was not derogatory — it attacked the method, not the person.”

Good to know

Insulting in tone. Everyday: insulting / rude. Close: pejorative. Pattern: derogatory about / towards. Critique of ideas ≠ derogatory by default.

Near in meaning

pejorative

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