patronizing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

You can empathize with your friend without demonizing your own position or patronizing her by saying everything will be OK.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 2, 2026

Epstein had made donations to Krauss’ Origins Project, part of his larger patronizing of the sciences.

From Salon • Feb. 6, 2026

Xavier is much older than she is and seems, frankly, somewhat stupid and patronizing, but the narrator is nevertheless tormented by her feelings for him.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025

It’s patronizing, like something that would be said at a charity gala—and while well-meaning, potentially inadequate to a historically skeptical and cynical era.

From Slate • Sep. 18, 2025

Some know a great deal about cars and will be offended by a salesman who adopts a patronizing tone.

From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell