bemean: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low / ArchaicArchaic / Literary
Quick answer
What does “bemean” mean?
To reduce in dignity or character.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To reduce in dignity or character; to demean.
To lower oneself or another in status or moral standing; to act or cause to act in an undignified manner.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is equally archaic and obsolete in both varieties. No significant modern regional difference exists.
Connotations
If encountered, it carries a formal, old-fashioned, or even pretentious tone.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both BrE and AmE. 'Demean' is the standard modern form.
Grammar
How to Use “bemean” in a Sentence
[Subject] + bemean + [Reflexive Pronoun/Object] + (in/by/through + [Noun Phrase])Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bemean” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He would not bemean himself by engaging in such gossip.
- The old chronicle warns nobles not to bemean their honour for gold.
American English
- The character refused to bemean his principles, even under pressure.
- To bemean oneself in that way was seen as a social catastrophe.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Extremely rare; might appear in historical or literary analysis of older texts.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bemean”
- Using 'bemean' in modern writing instead of 'demean'.
- Spelling it as 'be mean' (two words, meaning 'to be unkind').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is extremely rare and considered archaic. The standard modern verb is 'demean'.
There is no semantic difference. 'Bemean' is an older, now obsolete spelling/variant of 'demean'.
No. This is a common confusion due to the 'mean' element. It is unrelated to the verb 'to mean' (signify).
No, unless you are deliberately creating an archaic style or quoting an old source. Always use 'demean' for modern contexts.
To reduce in dignity or character.
Bemean is usually archaic / literary in register.
Bemean: in British English it is pronounced /bɪˈmiːn/, and in American English it is pronounced /bɪˈmin/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'BEfore DEMEAN was standard, it was sometimes BE-MEAN.' The word describes being mean to one's own standing.
Conceptual Metaphor
MORAL STATUS IS PHYSICAL HEIGHT (to bemean is to lower).
Practice
Quiz
'Bemean' is best understood in modern English as: