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.

A man stood outside—an elderly, slight-figured, quiet-looking man, who looked at Bryce with a half-deprecating, half-nervous air; the air of a man who was shy in manner and evidently fearful of seeming to intrude.

From The Paradise Mystery by Fletcher, J. S. (Joseph Smith)

As she slipped on her bangles after washing, Mrs. Cartwright found herself thinking, with a half-mutinous, half-deprecating little smile, of some of the greatest love affairs of the world.

From The Disturbing Charm by Ruck, Berta

The man, who was clad in a cotton blouse and blue jean trousers, made a half-respectful, half-deprecating gesture.

From A Traitor's Wooing by Hill, Headon

Diana had asked the Roughsedges, explaining the matter, with a half-deprecating, half-humorous face, to the comfortable ear of Mrs. Roughsedge.

From The Testing of Diana Mallory by Ward, Humphry, Mrs.

Dill, looking to Billy longer and lanker and mere melancholy than ever, caressed his chin meditatively and regarded Billy in his wistful, half-deprecating way.

From The Long Shadow by Bower, B. M.