DECRY Synonyms: 114 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'decry' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of decry are belittle , depreciate , and disparage . While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," decry implies open condemnation with intent to discredit. // decried their defeatist attitude

Q: In what contexts can 'belittle' take the place of 'decry'?

The words belittle and decry are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude. // belittled the achievements of others

Q: Where would 'depreciate' be a reasonable alternative to 'decry'?

The words depreciate and decry can be used in similar contexts, but depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed. // critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

Q: When would 'disparage' be a good substitute for 'decry'?

Although the words disparage and decry have much in common, disparage implies depreciation by indirect means such as slighting or invidious comparison. // disparaged polo as a game for the rich

decry

verb

di-ˈkrī

Definition of decry

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as in to dismiss

to express scornfully one's low opinion of scientists were quick to decry the claims of the psychic

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as in to denounce

to declare to be morally wrong or evil a statement by the church decrying modern society's liberal attitude regarding marriage and divorce

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How does the verb decry contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of decry are belittle, depreciate, and disparage. While all these words mean "to express a low opinion of," decry implies open condemnation with intent to discredit.

decried their defeatist attitude

In what contexts can belittle take the place of decry?

The words belittle and decry are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, belittle usually suggests a contemptuous or envious attitude.

belittled the achievements of others

Where would depreciate be a reasonable alternative to decry?

The words depreciate and decry can be used in similar contexts, but depreciate implies a representing as being of less value than commonly believed.

critics depreciate his plays for being unabashedly sentimental

When would disparage be a good substitute for decry?

Although the words disparage and decry 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 decry Jerrold’s accompanying text is much more strident, decrying the moral failings that lead to imprisonment and waxing dubious on the value of prison reform, rehabilitation efforts, and charity. —Sarah C. Schaefer, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2025 In a striking note, a defense attorney for one of the officers has decried the movie’s role in reviving the case. —Steven Zeitchik, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Feb. 2025 Rather than being against Stephen Curry and decrying his influence on basketball, there was a sense of awe. —Callum Booth, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025 While opponents decried the debt package as financially irresponsible, allies of the mayor defended it as a typical and crucial way to fund basic infrastructure work. —Chicago Tribune, 27 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decry

Recent Examples of Synonyms for decry

Verb

Some loved the medical thriller aspects and quick pacing, while others dismissed it as shallow and improbable.

— Ars Technica, Ars Technica, 14 Mar. 2025
In January 2025, a federal judge dismissed the case in its entirety and the family is now appealing the decision.

— Iris Carreras, CBS News, 14 Mar. 2025