Positive Reinforcement Vocabulary

verb to make someone or something seem less impressive or important

• It is inappropriate to belittle others in a professional setting.
• Don't belittle your sister's achievements just because you're jealous.
• Stop trying to belittle me, I know what I'm doing.
• His constant criticism seemed to belittle her very existence.

noun a gesture of praise or approval

preposition a small, light touch or stroke with the hand on someone's back to show approval or encouragement

• The employee received a pat on the back from the manager for completing the project ahead of schedule.
• I gave my friend a pat on the back for acing the exam.
• My coach always gives me a pat on the back when I score a goal.
• Sometimes we all need a metaphorical pat on the back to boost our confidence.