WordGarden.iocondescend
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˌɒndɪsˈɛnd/
US
- /ˌkɑndɪˈsɛnd/
Meanings
Verb
to treat someone as if they are less intelligent or important
to agree to do something considered beneath one's status or dignity
Beyond the definition
Imagine a queen speaking to a peasant—if she talks down to them, treating them as less intelligent or important, that's condescension. To condescend means to behave as though you're better than someone else, often by talking to them in a patronizing way. It isn't just about being polite; it's about quietly (or not so quietly!) suggesting your own superiority. A teacher might explain something patiently, but they condescend if they explain it as though the student is incapable of understanding anything complex.
The word comes from a Latin root meaning "to descend," picturing someone looking down from a higher position. It's often used when someone with power or knowledge treats other people as less important. You might say, "He condescended to explain it to me, as if I couldn't figure it out on my own."
It can also appear in the pattern condescend to + verb, meaning to do something you think is beneath you (often said with sarcasm). For example: "She finally condescended to reply."
To condescend means to behave in a way that shows you believe you are superior to others. It's more than just being polite or helpful; it involves a subtle (or sometimes blatant) display of arrogance and a lack of respect for the other person's intelligence, feelings, or status.
You might see someone condescend by speaking slowly and using simplified language when addressing someone they perceive as less educated. Or perhaps they offer unsolicited advice with an air of superiority, implying that the other person is incapable of handling things themselves. For example: "Despite her success, she often condescended to her colleagues, making them feel small."
Condescension isn't always intentional; sometimes people are unaware of how their behavior comes across. However, it's almost always perceived negatively by the recipient. It can damage relationships and create feelings of resentment.
Another common pattern is condescend to + verb, meaning to do something you consider beneath you (or that you feel you shouldn't have to do). This is often used in a critical or sarcastic way: "He wouldn't condescend to answer my email."
Historically, "condescend" also had a more positive meaning – to voluntarily lower oneself to interact with someone considered beneath one's station. A king might condescend to visit his subjects, showing humility. However, this usage is rare today; the word almost always carries a negative connotation of arrogance and disrespect.
So, while offering help or guidance can be kind, remember that true kindness doesn't come with an air of superiority. To condescend is to talk down to someone, implying they are less worthy of respect – and it's rarely well-received.
Examples
- 1
Direct complaint
Please don't condescend to me just because I asked a simple question.
- 2
Workplace hierarchy
He has a habit of condescending to junior staff in meetings.
- 3
Teaching
Good teachers can explain difficult ideas without condescending to their students.
- 4
Refusal
The senator wouldn't even condescend to answer the reporter's question.
- Patterncondescend to do something
do something you think is beneath you
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- condescendverb
Forms
- condescending-ing formverb
- condescendedpast tenseverb
- condescendsverb