-
> - Dictionary >
- Condescendance - meaning & definition
Translate Text 
Translate Files Condescendance (en. Condescension)
/kɔ̃.dɛ.sɑ̃dɑ̃s/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishFrench
noun
Behavior of a person who treats others with a sense of superiority.
His condescension towards his colleagues was palpable.
Sa condescendance envers ses collègues était palpable.
A way of behaving by placing oneself above others.
He is often criticized for his condescension.
Il est souvent critiqué pour sa condescendance.
An attitude that shows disguised contempt under an appearance of kindness.
She spoke to the children with reprehensible condescension.
Elle parlait aux enfants avec une condescendance répréhensible.
Etymology
The word comes from the Latin 'condescendere', which literally means 'to descend with', thus implying a notion of superiority.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to show condescension
To act in a way that demonstrates superiority over others.
faire preuve de condescendance
to look down on
To regard someone with condescension.
regarder de haut
to speak with condescension
To express oneself in a way that implies disdain or a superior attitude.
parler avec condescendance
Related Words
arrogance
Behavior or attitude of a person who believes themselves to be superior to others.
arrogance
humility
Quality of a person who does not believe themselves to be superior to others.
humilité
paternalism
Attitude of kindness tinged with condescension.
paternalisme
Slang Meanings
He is pretentious.
He behaves like a pretentious person with his friends.
Il se comporte comme un hautain avec ses amis.
A mix of mockery and pedagogy.
His way of making coffee was full of mixed mockery.
Sa façon de préparer le café était pleine de mélanges de moquerie.