contemptuous
/kən'temptjuəs/
Definition
Adjective: 1. Expressing or feeling deep hatred or disapproval; scornful: Showing or feeling that someone or something is worthless or deserving of disdain. 2. Manifesting a lack of respect; disdainful: Characterized by an attitude that looks down upon someone or something as inferior.
Usage and Examples
The adjective "contemptuous" is used to describe a person, their behavior, attitude, or expression that shows strong contempt.
- She gave a contemptuous laugh at his suggestion.
- His contemptuous tone made it clear he thought the idea was foolish.
- The critic's review was openly contemptuous of the author's work.
- He was contemptuous of their attempts to negotiate.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
- "contemptuous of": This is the most common prepositional phrase used with "contemptuous," indicating the target of the scorn.
- She was openly contemptuous of their traditional values.
- It often implies a sense of moral or intellectual superiority from the person feeling contempt.
- The word is stronger than "disdainful" or "scornful," suggesting a more profound and active feeling of disgust or hatred.
Variants and Related Words
- Contempt (noun): The feeling that a person or a thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn.
- He felt nothing but contempt for the traitor.
- Contemptibly (adverb): In a manner deserving contempt.
- He acted contemptibly.
- Contemptibility (noun): The quality of being contemptible.
Synonyms
- Scornful: Feeling or expressing contempt or derision.
- Disdainful: Showing contempt or lack of respect.
- Derisive: Expressing contempt or ridicule.
- Sneering: Smiling or speaking in a contemptuous or mocking manner.
Antonyms
- Respectful: Feeling or showing deference and respect.
- Admiring: Regarding with wonder, pleasure, or approval.
- Reverent: Feeling or showing deep and solemn respect.
Idioms and Phrases
- A contemptuous sneer/smile/look: A facial expression that clearly shows contempt.
- She answered his question with a contemptuous sneer.
- To be held in contempt: (A legal and figurative phrase) To be considered deserving of scorn or to be judged disobedient to the orders of a court.
- The witness was held in contempt of court for refusing to answer. (Note: This idiom uses the noun "contempt," not the adjective "contemptuous.")
Adjective
-
expressing extreme contempt
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