What Is Another Way to Say “Verbal Abuse”?

Looking for synonyms for verbal abuse? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say verbal abuse.

  • Insults
  • Slander
  • Vilification
  • Name-calling
  • Derogation
  • Vituperation
  • Invective
  • Defamation
  • Harassment
  • Belittlement
  • Disparagement
  • Revilement
  • Denigration
  • Contumely
  • Scorn
  • Mockery
  • Libel (in written form)
  • Ridicule
  • Character assassination
  • Aspersions

Want to learn how to say verbal abuse professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Insults

“Insults” are derogatory remarks or offensive words used to offend or demean someone.

  • Example: “The use of insults in the workplace is strictly prohibited.”

2. Slander

“Slander” refers to false spoken statements damaging to a person’s reputation.

  • Example: “Accusations made against her were later proven to be slander.”

3. Vilification

“Vilification” involves speaking or writing about someone in an abusively disparaging manner.

  • Example: “The article was criticized for the vilification of the public figure.”

4. Name-calling

“Name-calling” is the act of using offensive names to belittle or insult someone.

  • Example: “Name-calling during team discussions is unacceptable and unprofessional.”

5. Derogation

“Derogation” means speaking about someone or something in a way that shows a lack of respect.

  • Example: “Derogation of colleagues’ ideas can discourage team spirit.”

6. Vituperation

“Vituperation” is bitter and abusive language often used in a vehement or angry manner.

  • Example: “His speech was filled with unnecessary vituperation towards the opposition.”

7. Invective

“Invective” involves insulting, abusive, or highly critical language.

  • Example: “The manager’s invective remarks about the employee’s performance were criticized.”

8. Defamation

“Defamation” is the act of damaging the good reputation of someone through slander or libel.

  • Example: “The company sued for defamation after false claims were made against it.”

9. Harassment

“Harassment” refers to aggressive pressure or intimidation, often persistent.

  • Example: “Verbal harassment in any form is a serious violation of company policy.”

10. Belittlement

“Belittlement” means making someone or something seem less important or less significant.

  • Example: “Belittlement of junior staff members will not be tolerated.”

11. Disparagement

“Disparagement” involves speaking about someone in a way that shows strong disapproval or lack of respect.

  • Example: “The disparagement of alternative solutions stifles innovation.”

12. Revilement

“Revilement” is the act of criticizing someone in an angry or abusive manner.

  • Example: “Revilement of team members’ contributions can lead to a toxic work environment.”

13. Denigration

“Denigration” involves unfairly criticizing someone or something.

  • Example: “Denigration of competitors’ products is not a part of our marketing strategy.”

14. Contumely

“Contumely” is insolent or insulting language or treatment.

  • Example: “The manager’s contumely attitude towards suggestions was noted during the review.”

15. Scorn

“Scorn” is the feeling or belief that someone or something is worthless or despicable.

  • Example: “Scorn towards employees’ concerns can result in low morale.”

16. Mockery

“Mockery” is teasing and contemptuous language or behavior directed at a person or thing.

  • Example: “Mockery of the client’s requirements is not acceptable.”

17. Libel (in written form)

“Libel” is publishing a false statement that is damaging to a person’s reputation.

  • Example: “The article was retracted after it was found to be libelous.”

18. Ridicule

“Ridicule” is the act of making fun of someone or something in a cruel or harsh way.

  • Example: “Ridicule based on professional skills is considered harassment.”

19. Character Assassination

“Character assassination” involves deliberately and unjustly destroying someone’s personal or professional reputation.

  • Example: “The campaign against him was a clear case of character assassination.”

20. Aspersions

“Aspersions” are attacks on the reputation or integrity of someone or something.

  • Example: “Casting aspersions on colleagues’ motives can undermine teamwork.”

Linda Brown