Synonym Chooser

How does the verb depreciate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of depreciate are belittle, decry, and disparage. While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed.

critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

When is belittle a more appropriate choice than depreciate?

While in some cases nearly identical to depreciate, belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude.

belittled the achievements of others

In what contexts can decry take the place of depreciate?

The words decry and depreciate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, decry implies open condemnation with intent to discredit.

decried their defeatist attitude

When might disparage be a better fit than depreciate?

Although the words disparage and depreciate have much in common, disparage implies depreciation by indirect means such as slighting or invidious comparison.

disparaged polo as a game for the rich

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of depreciate Between dumb debt that finances depreciating anything, and smart investments that raise the roof, and have the potential for appreciation. John Hope Bryant, Time, 30 May 2025 Two years ago Congress eliminated the ability of team owners to immediately depreciate the value of tangible assets of their franchises. Brendan Coffey, Sportico.com, 22 May 2025 Despite a recent policy reversal, Turkey’s currency continues to depreciate. Ahmet T. Kuru, The Conversation, 19 Mar. 2025 Plaza Accord refers to an agreement signed in 1985 when G5 nations agreed to depreciate the U.S. dollar against the German mark and the Japanese yen to address trade imbalances. Anniek Bao, CNBC, 6 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for depreciate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for depreciate
Verb
  • Here are recommendations for maintaining safety during a thunderstorm: To reduce the chance of being struck by lightning, when venturing outside, have a plan to get to a safer area.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 9 June 2025
  • Yerevan has since sought to diversify its defense sources, reducing arms imports from Russia to as low as 10 percent by 2024.
    Paul Iddon, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
Verb
  • Congressional Republicans, many of whom had also grown annoyed with Musk over the last few months, have largely dismissed the billionaire’s fiery opposition to the bill.
    Phil Mattingly, CNN Money, 6 June 2025
  • Despite seeking help from her local GP, her concerns were initially dismissed.
    Ashley Vega, People.com, 6 June 2025
Verb
  • Delete and devalue your digital footprint wherever possible.
    Adam Jackson, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
  • Kincaid’s hybrid method is also a deliberate rejection of the hierarchies that have long devalued certain materials or routines.
    Okla Jones, Essence, 12 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The perception that Iran’s military strength is significantly diminished will raise questions about the stability of its political system.
    Ariel Cohen, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025
  • Give ample space to large vehicles - Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 14 June 2025
Verb
  • Here are tips on how to stay safe during a thunderstorm: To minimize risk of being struck by lightning, when going outside, have a plan to get to a safer place.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 14 June 2025
  • This includes employing a repeatable data migration approach that minimizes the risk of unsuccessful implementations and ensures high-quality data that aligns with business goals.
    Rajnish Nath, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
Verb
  • Several Make America Great Again (MAGA) figures, such as Laura Loomer, are criticizing Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz over his ties to the suspect in Saturday's deadly shooting.
    Mandy Taheri Hollie Silverman, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 June 2025
  • Following the opening match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta between Canada and Argentina, Argentina’s players and head coach Lionel Scaloni criticized the playing surface.
    Melanie Anzidei, New York Times, 14 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Depreciate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/depreciate. Accessed 19 Jun. 2025.

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