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patronizing vs. condescending

patronizing

[pey-truh-nahy-zing, pa-] / ˈpeɪ trəˌnaɪ zɪŋ, ˈpæ- /

adjective

displaying or indicative of an offensively condescending manner.

a patronizing greeting, accompanied by a gentle pat on the back.

condescending

[kon-duh-sen-ding] / ˌkɒn dəˈsɛn dɪŋ /

adjective

showing or implying a usually patronizing descent from dignity or superiority.

They resented the older neighbors' condescending cordiality.

Synonyms:

supercilious, disdainful, patronizing