self-deprecating
Say it: self-DEP-rih-kay-ting /ˌsɛlfˈdɛprɪkeɪtɪŋ/ · adjective
What “self-deprecating” means
Gently making fun of yourself.
More precisely: Modest about yourself, or making gentle fun of yourself.
Example: “Her self-deprecating opener about her stage fright won the audience over instantly.”
When to use it
Use it for humour that admits your own flaws or mistakes, often to put others at ease.
Similar words
modest, self-mocking, humble
Quick check
After burning dinner, you jokingly award yourself a wooden spoon for outstanding cooking failure. Your humour is…
self-deprecating or self-important?
Show the answer
self-deprecating
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