So if someone is giving you an attitude when you are telling them about certain life decisions you made. And that person really doesn't understand the situation, not to mention they are ignorant... how would you describe what he or she is being?
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To summarise, this someone is 1) talking down to you, 2) thinks your actions are wrong, 3) does not understand the situation, 4) is ignorant? – Huey Apr 25 '15 at 03:47
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And 5) giving you an attitude? – Huey Apr 25 '15 at 03:53
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Informally, "mansplaining" is condescendingly explaining something you already know, often better than them, under the misguided assumption that you're ignorant. – Qaz Aug 23 '15 at 04:43
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1Possible duplicate of What do you call someone who thinks everyone is incompetent – Julie Carter Aug 23 '15 at 15:03
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With regards to talking down, a possible word is patronising
treat with an apparent kindness which betrays a feeling of superiority.
She's a good-hearted girl,’ he said in a patronizing voice
or condescending
having or showing an attitude of patronizing superiority.
An example of condescending is a parent who speaks to her grown child as if he were still a toddler.
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1Unless they're in the US, in which case, they'd be patronizing. – Steven Littman Apr 25 '15 at 11:05
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I agree with the answer above, "patronizing," or "condescending," and would add "dismissive," which might be a good alternative as it describes the same thing but without as much attitude attached. This means it might be a good word to use if you are trying to be diplomatic while still describing "patronizing and condescending." A fine point, but fine points are useful sometimes :)
Wendy
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