condescendingly
condescendingly — adverb
1. how one speaks or behaves when implying that one considers oneself better, more
how one speaks or behaves when implying that one considers oneself better, more intelligent, or of higher standing than the person one is addressing.
The manager condescendingly explained the simple filing procedure to the experienced new hire.
modifies verb of explaining
When Jin asked a thoughtful question, Professor Okafor condescendingly replied with a dismissive wave.
Lauren smiled condescendingly at her younger brother's suggestion, treating it like a childish idea.
Bilal condescendingly patted the intern on the shoulder and said he would 'handle the real work'.
Zuri's neighbour condescendingly called her university degree 'cute' instead of acknowledging its value.
- patronizingly
more about treating someone as if they need protection or help, with a false kindness
- superciliously
more formal and literary; suggests silent contempt or haughty dismissal
- haughtily
focuses on arrogance and pride rather than the act of talking down to someone
- disdainfully
emphasises scorn or disgust in the attitude
- respectfully
showing genuine esteem for the other person
- humbly
without any sense of superiority
- modestly
not claiming or implying special importance
文法句型
condescendingly + verb of speaking
verb + condescendingly
用法筆記
Typically modifies verbs of speech (explain, reply, say, tell) or non-verbal behaviour (smile, nod, look, treat). Common in descriptions of workplace or social situations where there is a real or assumed power imbalance.