Basic Details
Word: Demean
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To make someone feel less important or respected.
Synonyms: Belittle, denigrate, degrade
Antonyms: Esteem, elevate, uplift
Idioms and Phrases
- Demeaning behaviour: Actions that lower the dignity or self-esteem of a person. Example: "His demeaning behaviour towards his colleagues made the workplace uncomfortable."
- Demean oneself: To behave in a way that lowers ones own dignity or respect. Example: "She refused to demean herself by arguing with someone who was clearly wrong."
Usage Examples
Example 1: It is not fair to demean someone based on their appearance or background.
Example 2: The teacher reminded the students that putting others down only demeans themselves in the process.
Example 3: Demeaning remarks can have a lasting negative effect on a persons confidence and self-worth.
Fun Fact
The word "demean" comes from the Latin word "demeanare," which means "to conduct oneself." It originally referred to a way of behaving but has evolved to specifically describe actions that belittle others.
Famous Quote
"Do not demean yourself by doing anything that you do not respect." - Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "demean" mean?
a) To elevate someone
b) To make someone feel less important
c) To support someone
d) To ignore someone
Answer: b) To make someone feel less important
2. Which of these is a synonym of "demean"?
a) Uplift
b) Belittle
c) Honour
d) Respect
Answer: b) Belittle
3. Which sentence uses "demean" correctly?
a) She chose to demean her friendship with kindness.
b) They demeaned him by praising his hard work.
c) The insults served to demean her self-confidence.
d) His actions only demeaned the importance of teamwork.
Answer: c) The insults served to demean her self-confidence.
4. Which idiom means the same as "demean"?
a) Demeaning behaviour
b) Walk on eggshells
c) Rise to the occasion
d) Make waves
Answer: a) Demeaning behaviour
5. What is the opposite of "demean"?
a) Belittle
b) Esteem
c) Denigrate
d) Mock
Answer: b) Esteem
