Grammar fix
patronise
treat as inferior
To talk to someone in a way that seems kind or helpful but shows you think they are less intelligent or important than you.
How oftenCommon
LevelC1
Used inSpeech & writing
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
The receptionist patronised me by explaining how to use the ticket machine as if I were a child.
I once asked for help in a phone shop and the guy really patronised me, explaining what 'charging' meant just because I didn't know the technical terms.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: He patronised to me during the meeting.
Say: He patronised me during the meeting.
In this meaning, 'patronise' takes the person directly, without 'to'.
Don't confuse it
Other ways to say it
Talk down to someone as if they know less
How formalEverydayFormal
talk down toSpeak as though the other person understands less than you.
patroniseYou're here · Treat someone with a superior attitude disguised as helpfulness.
condescend toMore formal: speak or behave as though someone is inferior.