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lower oneself

[ˈloʊ.ər wʌnˈsɛlf]
verb phrase
degradar-se
1. To behave in a way that is beneath one's dignity or social status; to compromise one's principles or standards
I won't lower myself by responding to such insults.
Não vou degradar-me respondendo a tais insultos.
2. To descend physically to a lower position or level
She had to lower herself through the window to escape.
Ela teve que se baixar pela janela para escapar.
NYC Slang
lose face, punk out
Synonyms
demean oneselfdegrade oneselfhumble oneselfstoopcondescend
Antonyms
elevate oneselfdignify oneselfexalt oneselfuplift oneself

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
degradar-se
Most common usage in Brazilian Portuguese
General Brazilian
rebaixar-se
Alternative common usage emphasizing lowering of status
Portugal
rebaixar-se
Preferred usage in European Portuguese
Portugal
descender-se
Less common, more formal usage

Related Idioms & Phrases

lower oneself to someone's level
not lower oneself
lower one's standards
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