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patronizing vs. condescending

[ pey-truh-nahy-zing, pa- ]
adjective
  1. displaying or indicative of an offensively condescending manner: a patronizing greeting, accompanied by a gentle pat on the back.
[ kon-duh-sen-ding ]
adjective
  1. showing or implying a usually patronizing descent from dignity or superiority: They resented the older neighbors' condescending cordiality.

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