Abase

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/əˈbeɪs/

Definitions

• To lower in rank, office, prestige, or esteem.
• To humble or degrade someone or oneself.

Usage Examples

• He felt that the harsh criticism would only serve to abase his confidence.
• It is wrong to abase others in order to elevate oneself.

Etymology

The word "abase" comes from the Middle English "abasen," derived from the Old French "abaisser," which means "to lower."

Synonyms

• Degrade
• Humiliate
• Belittle

Antonyms

• Elevate
• Honor
• Exalt

Translations

• Spanish: rebajar
• French: abaisser
• German: erniedrigen
• Italian: abbassare
• Portuguese: rebaixar
• Russian: унижать
• Chinese (Simplified): 降低
• Japanese: 低める
• Korean: 낮추다
• Arabic: خفض
• Hindi: घटाना
• Bengali: হ্রাস করা
• Punjabi: ਘਟਾਉਣਾ
• Gujarati: ઘટાડવું
• Marathi: कमी करणे
• Tamil: குறைக்கவும்
• Telugu: తగ్గించడం
• Malayalam: കുറയ്ക്കുക
• Kannada: ಕಡಿಮೆ ಮಾಡು
• Odia: କମାଇବା
• Assamese: কমোৱা
• Urdu: کم کرنا
• Manipuri: কমানো
• Sindhi: گهٽائڻ

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation may vary slightly based on regional accents.

Historical Usage

The term "abase" has been used in literature and rhetoric to describe the act of lowering one's status or dignity, often in moral or ethical contexts.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, abasing others is seen as a negative behavior, reflecting societal values around respect and dignity.

More Information

Understanding the implications of abasing behavior can lead to healthier interpersonal relationships and promote respect within communities.