pejorative
Expressing disapproval or conveying a negative connotation
Examples
In a meeting
“Let's avoid pejorative language in the feedback—keep it constructive.”
Over coffee
“He used 'politician' as a pejorative term, which I found unfair.”
Why this word
negative
pejorative specifically means expressing disapproval or belittling, while negative broadly means unfavorable
derogatory
pejorative is the precise linguistic term for words expressing disapproval, while derogatory emphasizes insult or disrespect
insulting
pejorative refers to words with inherent negative connotation, while insulting describes intent to offend
Usage tip
Use to describe words or phrases that carry negative or insulting implications. Helps identify loaded language in discussions about tone.
Etymology
Latin: pejorare (to make worse) from pejor (worse)
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Related words
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
abbreviate
Shorten a word, phrase, or text
prolixity
The quality of using too many words; excessive wordiness
polemical
Involving strongly critical or controversial argument
ellipsis
The omission of words from speech or writing; the punctuation mark indicating this
rebuttal
A refutation or contradiction of an argument