1
Core meaning
A feeling or expression that someone or something is worthless, inferior, or deserving of scorn.
Example
The official treated public questions with contempt.
contempt
/kənˈtempt/ · kun-TEMPTnoun
A feeling or expression that someone or something is worthless, inferior, or deserving of scorn.
Use contempt to express this relationship precisely: a feeling or expression that someone or something is worthless, inferior, or deserving of scorn.
What contempt Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common noun frame
Use this noun in a complete noun phrase, adding the complement that identifies what it refers to when needed.
Example
Her contempt for the fraudulent scheme was unmistakable.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact concept matters; a related term may describe its cause, evidence, or opposite instead.
Example
Disagreement need not involve contempt for one's opponent.
Use contempt Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The official treated public questions with contempt.
Her contempt for the fraudulent scheme was unmistakable.
Disagreement need not involve contempt for one's opponent.
Precision Matters
Contempt overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
contempt
vs.Means a feeling or expression that someone or something is worthless, inferior, or deserving of scorn.
prestige
Means high respect, admiration, status, or influence gained through achievement, quality, reputation, or association.
contempt
vs.Means a feeling or expression that someone or something is worthless, inferior, or deserving of scorn.
venerate
Means regard or treat someone or something with profound respect, reverence, or devotion.
contempt
vs.Means a feeling or expression that someone or something is worthless, inferior, or deserving of scorn.
candor
Means the quality of being open, honest, and straightforward in speech or expression.
contempt
vs.Means a feeling or expression that someone or something is worthless, inferior, or deserving of scorn.
supercilious
Means behaving as though one is superior to others; haughty and disdainful.
Test contempt in Context
His behaviour expresses scorn and a belief that they are beneath respect.
1
The critic's sneer and dismissive laughter revealed his ___ for the young artists.