The word "discredit" is spelled dɪsˈkrɛdɪt. The initial phoneme /d/ represents the voiced alveolar stop, followed by the vowel /ɪ/ which is pronounced as an unstressed short "i" sound. This is followed by the consonant cluster /skr/, which is spelled with silent letter "k". The final syllable includes the vowel /ɛ/ (short "e"), followed by the voiced alveolar plosive /d/ and the unstressed vowel /ɪ/. Overall, the spelling of "discredit" reflects the complex interactions between English phonetics and orthography.
Discredit is a verb that refers to the act of causing someone or something to be regarded as untrustworthy or lacking credibility. It involves undermining the reputation, beliefs, or ideas of a person, organization, or concept by exposing flaws, inconsistencies, or negative information to make them seem unreliable or invalid. Discrediting may involve the spread of rumors, dissemination of negative facts, or publicizing damaging evidence to tarnish the reputation or standing of the subject.
In trying to discredit someone, individuals or groups often aim to diminish trust and respect towards the individual or their ideas. This can be done through mudslinging, character assassination, or attacking their authority or expertise. Discrediting may also include efforts to cast doubt or skepticism on the credibility of evidence, testimonies, or other forms of support.
Furthermore, the act of discrediting can be motivated by personal, political, or competitive reasons. It can be used as a tactic in debates, arguments, or legal proceedings to weaken the opposing side's stance or position. However, it is important to note that discrediting does not necessarily involve the presentation of truthful or accurate information, as it can also encompass spreading false or misleading information to achieve the desired outcome.
Ultimately, the aim of discrediting is to question the integrity or legitimacy of the subject and undermine their credibility and influence.
• Disgrace; reproach; dishonour; want of good reputation or credit.
• Not to believe or credit; to esteem of no importance; to disgrace.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word discredit derives from the Latin verb discredere, which is made up of two parts: dis- meaning apart or away, and credere meaning to trust or to believe. Therefore, discredere conveys the meaning to not trust or to not believe. This Latin term was later adapted into Middle English as discredyt in the 14th century before evolving into its current form, discredit.