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 next

as in to dismiss

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

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

Examples 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 The action received significant political attention, garnering praise from environmentalists and being decried by industry and Republicans. —

Rachel Frazin, The Hill, 7 Jan. 2025 What's New Two legal scholars have suggested Democrats should block President-elect Donald Trump from taking office, even as party leaders reject any such efforts and MAGA Republicans decry the very idea. —

Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 27 Dec. 2024 The two existing International Organizations (IPF and WPF) decry the situation, since its competing with their interests. —

Todd Boss, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024 The defendant, who carried a handwritten manifesto decrying the American health care system, has been cast as a martyr by some people sympathetic to his apparent philosophy — and the charges could strengthen that perception. —

Hurubie Meko, New York Times, 26 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for decry

Recent Examples of Synonyms for decry

Verb

To have the charge dismissed, a person must first plead guilty or no contest, agree to a treatment plan and then successfully complete that program.

— Stephen Hobbs, Sacramento Bee, 13 Jan. 2025
Moments after dismissing the Denver Broncos 31-7 from the opening playoff round Sunday, the Bills already had the Baltimore Ravens on their minds.

— Tim Graham, The Athletic, 13 Jan. 2025