Synonyms for

Insulting

Verb / ˌɪˈnsʌltɪŋ / Another word for insulting — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

causing offense or injury

Synonyms & similar words

scornful insult diss disdainful contemptuous affront offensive rude disrespectful derogatory abusive hurtful inflammatory provocative insensitive unkind insolent scornful contemptuous disparaging belittling disdainful mocking taunting sarcasm vitriolic

Synonyms by register

Formal

derogatory disparaging contemptuous offensive

Informal

rude disrespectful cheeky out of line

Literary

ignominious scurrilous vituperative

Antonyms

complimentary flattering praising approving laudatory commendatory

Common collocations

  • insulting remark
  • insulting gesture
  • insulting behavior
  • insulting tone
  • insulting comment
  • insulting language
  • deeply insulting

Word family

noun insult
verb insult
adjective insulting
adverb insultingly

Usage note

While 'insulting' describes something that causes offense, its antonyms often relate to praise or admiration. Be mindful of the context when choosing synonyms.

Example sentences

  1. He made an insulting comment about her appearance.
  2. It's not nice to say insulting things to people.
  3. She was hurt by his insulting remarks.
  4. The comedian's jokes were insulting and offensive.
  5. He was fired for making insulting comments to customers.

Quotes

  • I never make a trip to the United States without visiting a supermarket. To me they are more fascinating than any fashion salon. - Wallis Simpson
  • I don't care to belong to a club that accepts people like me as members. - Groucho Marx
  • The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits. - Albert Einstein

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