Derisory

usgb/dɪˈraɪsəri/
adjective

So small or unimportant as to be not worth considering; insignificant.

He was offered a derisory sum of money for his work.
Visual representation of "derisory" - So small or unimportant as to be not worth considering; insignificant.

Often appears as...

  • derisory sum
  • derisory amount

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "derisory"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Understatement

Use 'derisory' when something is so small, it almost feels like an understatement or joke.

Illustration for Understatement
They called his life's work a derisory endeavor.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Expectation vs Reality

'Derisory' often highlights a disappointing discrepancy between what is expected and what is offered.

Illustration for Expectation vs Reality
Her inheritance was a derisory amount, far less than she anticipated.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Almost Insulting

'Derisory' can imply that an offer is not just small but offensively so.

Illustration for Almost Insulting
The workers received a derisory pay raise proposal.
Visual representation of the word "Derisory"

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