talks down to

Speaks with condescension

To talk down to someone is to speak to them in a condescending or patronizing way, as if they were less intelligent or capable than you.

The phrase suggests addressing someone from a position of superiority, whether real or imagined.

I hate how he talks down to me like I'm a child.

She talks down to everyone who didn't go to college.

The behavior typically annoys or offends the person on the receiving end.

Related

well actually · preach · tone of voice · little lady · superiority · mansplain · know it all · criticize · dominance · demean · frustration · shame · indignation · resentment · scold · embarrassment · high horse · authority

Opposites
respect and equality in communication

talks down tovalidates

Confirms accuracy or legitimacy

empowers · affirms · levels with · acknowledges · honors

directional power dynamic

talks down tolooks up to

Regards with admiration

respects · honors · flatters · puts on a pedestal · brown-noses

Family

talk, talks, talked, talking, talker, talkers, down, downer, downers

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated G