Can you explain the difference in meaning between patronizing and condescending?
17 answers from our tutors
Best answer
Used conversationally they both basically mean the same thing. Upon further investigating though, there is some subtle differences between the words. Patronizing can mean giving support to, or being a customer of. Condescending is used in the definition of patronizing, suggesting that superiority is gained through a donor-dependent relationship. The verb condescend originally didn't have a negative connotation. It can literally mean to go or come down, but it has been used figuratively to describe 'coming down to one's level' Over the years it has developed a negative meaning. In modern times, they're very similar. You could say: "He's always patronizing me." (which has a negative meaning), or "He always acts so condescending towards me." (also negative). Good question Ruth!
To patronize someone is usually to be in agreement with someone in a sarcastic manner or in a superior (know it all) way. To be condescending is to speak to someone as if they are below you or have less individual value as you, if you are condescending you speak down to others.
Condensing is showing attitude that other are inferior where as patronizing is treating with apparent kindness which betray the feeling of superiority.
Check your English level for free
Take our quick and free test to find out your current level of English
Start test
Patronizing is where the person is actually paying you. Condescending is where the person is down with you. Con means with and descend, to put down. A condescending person would be with whatever someone else was putting you down about.
In most cases, both words can be used interchangeably. To be specific, condescending means, showing a spirit of patronizing the superiority, and patronizing is rendering help by betraying the feeling of a superiority.
Hi Ruth, both describe people who look down on others. However, they are a little different. Patronizing is a bit more two faced. You may outwardly treat someone nicely but inwardly look down on them. It isn't genuine kindness. Condescending is more direct, It is clear that you look down on the person. Your attitude, your speech, your treatment of the person shows that you don't value them. You think that they are nothing. You are superior to them. This negative action is direct. Not hidden, You have to remember, that in English the same words can mean different things. There is a positive meaning. So PATRON also means to provide help OR to be a client. Eg: The guest spoke offensively and condescendingly to the waiter, but no one said anything. My patronizing coworker thinks that he is better than all of us. He rolls his eyes and regularly make condescending remarks. Many celebrities are well known patrons to this charity
They mean basically the same thing except that you can be sarcastic when being patronizing towards a person and patron means a customer at a restaurant as well. The Hollywood stars love patronizing expensive restaurants.
These two adjectives are very similar in meaning and can be used Interchangeably in most examples. Patronizing refers to treating someone with apparent kindness which betrays a feeling of superiority. Condescending refers to displaying a superior attitude.
Hi Ruth, Patronizing-adj. apparently kind or helpful but betraying a feeling of superiority. Condescending is always used negatively to imply rudeness or disrespect. I hope it helps.
HI Ruth_Corodova, Patronizing and condescending are almost synonyms You could use either of them in a sentence and no one would assume you accidentally meant the other word. "Patronizing" means we are talking or behaving towards somebody because we think they are stupid compared to us. Example of how to use Patronizing in a sentence: -You're patronizing me, and I'd appreciate it if you stop. -I know I'm patronizing you but I can't help it if you're stupid. -You're always being so patronizing! "Condescending'" means that we are treating someone poorly because we believe ourselves to be more intelligent than they are. Example of how to use Condescending in a sentence: -You're constantly condescending towards me, but I know just as much as you do! -The boss is always such a condescending man towards us. We wouldn't have this job if we weren't smart. -You're always so condescending! Hope that helps clear your doubts.
patronize is to look down on someone in a more polite way as for condescending it is to belittle someone in a much brutal or horrible way. both words are interchangeable.
Other student questions
- What is your favorite way of introducing new words to English Learners?
English is such a complex Language yet simplifies as one advances. Introduction to new words help people differentiate words that may have the same meaning however is situation and noun dependent. How are some ways you as a Tutor, introduce new words to your students?
Best answer
I mostly use lesson topic-related sources, such as TED talk videos, Podcasts, or songs. I try to teach them in context and use visuals if needed. I use the MFP ( meaning, form, pronunciation) method for teaching and encourage the students to make sentences using the words. This way, students will have a clear understanding of how to use the word in the context and the correct preposition, if needed.
- What are your unique ways of Teaching English online?
Everyone has their own teaching method, It would be nice if we could all share how each of us goes about teaching - other than the obvious. For example; I do Key Cards and we do role play. If when during the dialogue there are discrepancies, we will then work on the structure, word, or tense that needs attention.
Best answer
I like to have conversations based on the student's interests. I have a wide range of hobbies and experiences, so we're bound to connect on a few topics we have in common.
Best answer
Introduce yourself, ask questions about student interest, what goal they want to reach, what they struggle with, maybe do a level test first, then give feedback. Lesson after the Trial lesson, do a free talk conversation about student hobbies to see how the grammar, pronunciation, and sentence structure are. In this way, you will start to know your student. This is only my opinion.
