adjective

patronizing

adjective

Speaking or behaving in a way that shows a superior, condescending attitude toward someone.

"His patronizing tone made her feel like a child being lectured."

"She found the manager's "helpful" advice deeply patronizing."

How to Use Patronizing

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTalking down to someone, treating them as less capable or less intelligent than they are.

Common pairings

patronizing tone patronizing remark sound patronizing

more patronizing comparative, most patronizing superlative

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His _____ tone made her feel like a child being lectured.

sizing seizing agonizing appetizing organizing downsizing memorizing vocalizing socializing tantalizing apologizing mesmerizing