a contemptible character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a contemptible character" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is deserving of contempt or disdain, often in a negative context. Example: "The villain in the story was portrayed as a contemptible character, making it easy for the audience to root against him."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Still, Augie had sized me up as a contemptible case: an inferior driver.

The New York Times

Still, he finds much to appreciate in the history plays: here, it is the weak, vacillating, sometimes contemptible character of King John; the "comic" but forthright, noble character of Philip the Bastard; the desperation and excess of maternal tenderness in Constance; and many beautiful and affecting passages.

Wikipedia

Perhaps we are fascinated with his contemptible characters because they remind us of ourselves.

The Guardian - Books

Sometimes, people just confirm the saying that "You may know how little God thinks of money by observing on what bad and contemptible characters he often bestows it".

The Guardian - Opinion

"The Shape of Things," which opens today nationwide, pretends to raise questions about the responsibilities of artists and the corrupting effect of erotic power, but instead erects a straw man (or, more accurately, a straw woman) whose actions are so extreme that the only appropriate response is the sputtering obscenities to which the other, slightly less contemptible characters are reduced.

The New York Times

Fashion has many dark edges, many contemptible characters shuffling through its ranks, and, at the end of the day, you may believe it possesses neither the soul of art nor the spirit of good faith that it is, in effect, the glorification of merchandise.

Vice

But Stanton is a marginal figure here and, to most of the other characters, a contemptible one.

The New York Times - Books

It's a contemptible tactic.

The New Yorker

As we all know, young workers are a contemptible bunch.

Harvard Business Review

"Is driving a taxi a contemptible occupation?" "No".

The New Yorker

Yet the talent to please is by no means a contemptible one.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a contemptible character" when you want to express strong disapproval or disdain for someone's behavior or moral qualities. It's effective in both fiction and non-fiction to convey a negative assessment of a person.

Common error

While "a contemptible character" is widely understood, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing. Consider more nuanced or specific language to describe the character's flaws for a more sophisticated analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a contemptible character" functions as a noun phrase that serves to negatively characterize an individual. It implies that the subject is deserving of scorn and disdain due to their actions or nature. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a contemptible character" is a phrase used to describe someone deserving of contempt or disdain. While grammatically correct and understandable, as confirmed by Ludwig, its frequency is missing due to a lack of examples in the provided data. The phrase functions as a noun phrase for negative characterization, with neutral formality suitable for various contexts like literature, media, and everyday conversation. Alternatives like "a despicable person" or "a loathsome individual" can be used for similar effect. It is advisable to use more nuanced language in formal or academic writing to specify the character's flaws rather than rely solely on this label.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a despicable person

Focuses more directly on the person's actions being despicable, making it a slightly stronger condemnation.

a loathsome individual

Emphasizes the feeling of loathing or disgust that the person inspires, highlighting an emotional response.

a vile creature

Suggests a deep moral corruption and wickedness, presenting a harsh judgment.

a wretched soul

Highlights the pitiable and unfortunate nature of the person, mixed with a sense of disdain.

a base character

Indicates a lack of moral principles or integrity, focusing on the person's inherent nature.

a lowlife

Informal and derogatory term referring to someone considered morally reprehensible or of a low social status.

a scoundrel

Implies deceitfulness and dishonesty, portraying someone who is untrustworthy and immoral.

a disgrace

Emphasizes the shame and dishonor that the person brings upon themselves and others.

a disgrace to humanity

This phrase heightens the sense of shame and implies that person actions do not live up to minimum moral standard.

a sorry excuse for a human being

A more elaborate and judgmental expression, questioning the person's worth and moral standing.

FAQs

How can I describe someone as despicable without using "a contemptible character"?

Alternatives include "a despicable person", "a loathsome individual", or describing their actions as vile and reprehensible.

What is the difference between "a contemptible character" and "a pathetic character"?

"A contemptible character" evokes disdain and scorn, while "a pathetic character" suggests pity and sadness. One is worthy of contempt, the other of sympathy, although the two aren't mutually exclusive.

Is it appropriate to use "a contemptible character" in academic writing?

It can be used, but sparingly. Academic writing often benefits from more precise and analytical language. Instead of simply labeling a character as "a contemptible character", consider detailing the specific traits or actions that make them so.

Can "a contemptible character" be used to describe oneself?

While grammatically correct, it is unusual. Describing oneself as "a contemptible character" implies a harsh self-assessment. It is more common to acknowledge specific flaws or actions rather than applying such a strong label.