Basic Details
Word: Belittle
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To make someone or something seem less important or valuable.
Synonyms: Diminish, disparage, undervalue
Antonyms: Praise, elevate, commend
Idioms and Phrases
- Belittle someone's efforts: To downplay or dismiss the work someone has done. Example: "It's not fair to belittle her efforts; she worked really hard on that project."
- Don't belittle yourself: A reminder not to underestimate one's own worth or abilities. Example: "You should be proud of your achievements; don't belittle yourself."
Usage Examples
Example 1: He always tries to belittle my opinions instead of listening to them.
Example 2: It's unkind to belittle someone for their mistakes; everyone makes them.
Example 3: She felt hurt when her ideas were belittled during the meeting.
Fun Fact
The word "belittle" comes from the Middle English term belittlen, which means to make little or less. It reflects a negative attitude towards someone's achievements, often discouraging them from trying their best.
Famous Quote
"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." - Eleanor Roosevelt
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "belittle" mean?
a) To make someone feel important
b) To make someone seem less important
c) To praise someone
d) To celebrate someone's achievements
Answer: b) To make someone seem less important
2. Which of these is a synonym of "belittle"?
a) Praise
b) Diminish
c) Honour
d) Celebrate
Answer: b) Diminish
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "belittle"?
a) Criticise
b) Disparage
c) Elevate
d) Undervalue
Answer: c) Elevate
4. Which sentence uses "belittle" correctly?
a) I will belittle my presentation tomorrow.
b) He decided to belittle the importance of teamwork.
c) She loves to belittle kind words.
d) They belittle the joy of learning new things.
Answer: b) He decided to belittle the importance of teamwork.
5. What does the phrase "don't belittle yourself" mean?
a) Underestimate your own worth.
b) Celebrate your achievements.
c) Dismiss other people's opinions.
d) Make fun of yourself.
Answer: a) Underestimate your own worth.
