Condescension

Condescension is a behavior that displays an attitude of superiority or patronizing behavior, implying that one considers themselves better than others. It often manifests as a down-talking or treating others as if they are less intelligent, important, or worthy. It can involve a display of kindness or graciousness in a manner that belittles the recipient. Ultimately, condescension arises from a perceived sense of elevated social standing, knowledge, wealth, or power, leading to an act of treating another person as if they are beneath them.

Condescension meaning with examples

• The professor's condescension towards his students during the office hours was palpable. He would constantly interrupt them, finishing their sentences and correcting their minor grammatical errors, making them feel inadequate, stifling their desire to engage in academic conversations and seek his guidance, and thus, eroding their self-esteem and dampening their enthusiasm for the subject matter.
• Her tone dripped with condescension as she explained the simple concept, as if talking to a child. She didn't even realize how rude she was, how belittling to be condescending to others, and the level of judgment she seemed to be making was almost unbearable to the audience. Despite being able to see her superiority, she should have tried to maintain the same human level as the rest of the guests.
• The wealthy socialite's condescension was evident in the way she treated the waitstaff at the charity gala. Offering lavish tips, but constantly reminding them of their 'inferior' status was clearly a condescending behavior, a clear display of her perceived superiority. Although being kind, a condescending person may not be aware of what they are actually doing, they will still treat others with the same lack of empathy.
• Despite his genuine offer to help, his condescension made it impossible to accept. It was clear that his intentions were not to help, but to use his knowledge to patronize and belittle those who didn't know about computers. He was condescending, therefore, it would be very hard to accept any help as it came across as superior and judgmental. It felt like a way of showing how smart he was.