Question 1

What does "talk down to" mean?

Accepted Answer

To speak to someone in a condescending way, as though they are less intelligent or capable than you.

Question 2

How do you use "talk down to" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

I stopped going to that doctor because he constantly talked down to me instead of explaining things properly.

Question 3

Is "talk down to" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"talk down to" is informal — used mainly in casual conversation. Always negative. The phrase captures a specific social dynamic where the speaker assumes intellectual or social superiority. Very commonly used as a complaint about someone's behavior: 'I hate the way he talks down to us.' Common in all English varieties.

talk down to

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