Need another word for talk down to (someone)? Use these synonyms of talk down to (someone) from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
patronize
condescend
belittle
demean
humiliate
disparage
denigrate
derogate
degrade
debase
depreciate
devalue
mock
ridicule
sneer
scorn
disdain
look down on
treat condescendingly
lecture
moralize
preach
speak condescendingly
use a patronizing tone
be superior
be haughty
be arrogant
be contemptuous
be disdainful
be scornful
be derisive
Meaning of talk down to (someone)
The primary meaning of "talk down to (someone)" is to speak to someone in a way that shows you believe you are better or more intelligent than they are, often in a way that is annoying or offensive.
Definitions
- To speak to someone in a condescending or patronizing manner, as if they are inferior or less intelligent.
- * To use a tone or language that is overly simplistic or explanatory, implying that the person being spoken to is not capable of understanding more complex ideas.
Etymology of talk down to (someone)
The phrase "talk down to" originated in the mid-20th century, with "down" implying a downward direction, suggesting a superior-to-inferior relationship.
The phrase is often associated with condescending or patronizing behavior, where one person speaks to another in a way that is perceived as superior or more intelligent.
Example Uses
- The teacher was accused of talking down to her students, using overly simplistic language and patronizing tone.
- * He talks down to his employees, making them feel inferior and unvalued.
- * The politician was criticized for talking down to the audience, using condescending language and tone.