Contempt
**Other forms: contempts
“Reserve the noun disdain for an extreme lack of respect: a food snob has nothing but contempt for mass-produced burgers and fries at a fast-food joint.”
Contempt has nothing to do with the verb condemn, despite the similarity in sound and meaning; it is from Latin temnere “to despise,” and if you despise someone, you have disdain for them. It’s a harsh term and should be used with care; it’s stronger than either disdain or scorn. It suggests you find someone or something utterly worthless. That food snob might say the words “Big Mac” or “Whopper” with a voice dripping in disdain.
Referring Definitions
– Lack of respect accompanied by a feeling of intense dislike
“he was held in contempt”Synonyms:despite, disdain, scorn– Open disrespect for a person or thing
Synonyms: scorn– A manner that is generally disrespectful and contemptuous
Synonyms:disrespect– A willful disobedience to or disrespect for the authority of a court or legislative body
Examples from Books & Articles
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The last time I saw him, he gave me a look of disdain, but now his eyes are wide and soft.
Divergent
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For instance, she has no twin sets, and views them with disdain.
Cat’s Eye
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“Ah yes, I am already aware that Mundungus has been treating your inheritance with light-fingered disdain,” said Dumbledore, frowning a little.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
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“I know precisely what you are feeling. I know all about your disdain, your hatred, your disgust. But don’t worry, I am on your side!”
1984
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘contempt‘. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Alltypemeaning.com or its editors.