Discredit - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
To harm someone's reputation or cast doubt on something's validity.
Synonyms:
disgrace, dishonor, defame, disparage
Part of Speech:
verb, noun
Antonyms:
credit, honor, praise
Common Collocations:
discredit a theory, discredit a witness, discredit an opponent
Derivatives:
discreditable, discredited, discrediting
Usage Tips:
Use "discredit" when undermining trust or reputation; often involves exposing falsehoods or flaws in arguments.
Common Phrases:
bring into discredit, throw discredit on, attempt to discredit
Etymology:
From Latin "dis-" (opposite) + "credere" (to believe), meaning to refuse belief or trust.
Examples:
- 1. The scandal could discredit the politician if proven true.
- 2. She tried to discredit his claims with solid evidence.
- 3. The article aims to discredit the conspiracy theory thoroughly.
- 4. His actions may discredit the entire organization’s reputation unfairly.