contemptible person

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contemptible person" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is deserving of contempt or disdain due to their actions or character. Example: "His deceitful behavior revealed him to be a contemptible person, unworthy of trust."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

What sort of contemptible person are you?

Independent

Its recent incorporation of a historical thesaurus makes it even more valuable: how else would I learn that early 17th-century terms for a contemptible person include wormling and shag-rag?

The New York Times

The Online Etymology Dictionary would seem to agree, as a schlemiel is described as an "awkward, clumsy person," while the sort of "contemptible person" referred to in the title would seem more like the characters, one of them played by Paul Rudd, who act like jerks by giving the dinner.

The New York Times

In 2005, Whitlam called Kerr "a contemptible person".

Wikipedia

The boys readily admit to the spray painting, and explain to the city council that the word "fag" is not intended as an insult to homosexuals, and is being used only in reference to a contemptible person who rides a Harley motorcycle, or "an inconsiderate douchebag", as Stan puts it.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Det Ch Insp Godfrey O'Toole called Oakes a "contemptible individual".

BBC

I know £10m is a lot of money for a person, even a contemptible overpaid media scumbag like me.

The Guardian - Opinion

Despite its racial connotation, the official definition of the N-word is this: "a person of any race or origin regarded as contemptible, inferior, ignorant, etc".

Huffington Post

In Japan, shoes are considered contemptible, they always take off their shoes at the entrance to every home, both for themselves and for others," wrote one person.

The Washington Post

Too contemptible.

The New York Times

It's contemptible.Yikes.Yikes

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "contemptible person", ensure that the context clearly justifies the strong negative connotation. Avoid using it casually or without sufficient evidence to support the judgment.

Common error

Avoid using "contemptible person" in situations that only require mild disapproval or disagreement. Opt for milder terms like "unpleasant" or "disagreeable" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contemptible person" functions as a noun phrase where "contemptible" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "person". It serves to characterize an individual as deserving of contempt. Ludwig AI confirms that it follows standard grammar rules and is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "contemptible person" is a grammatically correct and usable term to describe someone deserving of contempt. While relatively rare in usage, as identified by Ludwig, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Related phrases include "despicable individual" and "reprehensible character", each carrying slightly different connotations. When using this phrase, ensure the context warrants such a strong negative judgment and consider milder alternatives for less severe situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

despicable individual

Focuses on the reprehensible nature of the person's actions or character.

reprehensible character

Highlights the blameworthy and morally wrong aspects of the person's nature.

loathsome being

Emphasizes the feeling of disgust and aversion that the person evokes.

abhorrent figure

Stresses the repugnant and detestable qualities of the person.

vile creature

Suggests a base and morally corrupt nature.

scornful wretch

Highlights the pitiable and contempt-inducing state of the person.

disgusting specimen

Implies a sense of revulsion and distaste towards the person.

offensive character

Highlights the person's inclination to cause outrage and annoyance.

obnoxious individual

Focuses on the irritating and unpleasant qualities of the person.

wretched soul

Emphasizes the misery and unhappiness associated with the person, often deserving of pity mixed with contempt.

FAQs

How can I use "contemptible person" in a sentence?

You can use "contemptible person" to describe someone whose actions or character are deserving of contempt. For example, "His deceitful behavior revealed him to be a contemptible person, unworthy of trust."

What are some alternatives to "contemptible person"?

You can use alternatives like "despicable individual", "reprehensible character", or "loathsome being" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What distinguishes "contemptible person" from "despicable individual"?

While both terms describe someone deserving of strong disapproval, "contemptible person" emphasizes a sense of scorn and disdain, whereas "despicable individual" focuses more on the reprehensible and morally wrong nature of their actions.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "contemptible person"?

It's appropriate to use "contemptible person" when describing someone who displays actions or a character so morally bankrupt or offensive that they are deserving of strong scorn and disdain. This phrase is most effective when the context provides clear evidence of their reprehensible behavior.