Pejorative

Pronunciation: /pɪˈdʒɔrətɪv/

Definitions of pejorative

adjective expressing contempt or disapproval

Example Sentences

A1 Some people use pejorative language when they want to insult others.

A2 The term 'nerd' is sometimes used in a pejorative way to describe someone who is very intelligent but socially awkward.

B1 It is important to avoid using pejorative terms when discussing sensitive topics.

B2 The comedian's jokes were criticized for being pejorative towards certain ethnic groups.

C1 The author's use of pejorative language in the novel sparked controversy and debate.

C2 The politician's pejorative remarks about his opponent were widely condemned by the public.

Examples of pejorative in a Sentence

formal The use of pejorative language in academic writing is strongly discouraged.

informal She didn't appreciate the pejorative comments made about her appearance.

slang I can't believe he used that pejorative term to describe his ex-girlfriend.

figurative The dark clouds were a pejorative sign of the impending storm.

Grammatical Forms of pejorative

• past tense: pejoratived
• plural: pejoratives
• comparative: more pejorative
• superlative: most pejorative
• present tense: pejorates
• future tense: will pejorate
• perfect tense: have pejorated
• continuous tense: is pejorating
• singular: pejorative
• positive degree: pejorative
• infinitive: to pejorate
• gerund: pejorating
• participle: pejorated

Origin and Evolution of pejorative

First Known Use: 1882 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'pejorative' comes from the Latin word 'peiorare' which means 'to make worse'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in a linguistic context to describe words or expressions that convey a negative or disparaging connotation, the term 'pejorative' has since expanded to encompass any language or behavior that belittles or diminishes someone or something.