contemptuous

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "contemptuous" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a feeling of strong dislike or a lack of respect. Example: He had a contemptuous look on his face when she asked for help.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The system Labour has for choosing its leader is contemptuous of its membership.

The Guardian

The usual reaction to the suburbs and anything that happens in them is a contemptuous one.

The Guardian - Opinion

We have to speak to them and, most of all, listen to them rather than talking about them in the most fearful and contemptuous tones.

The Guardian - Opinion

He said Blair was 'openly contemptuous of ideology' and that the mantra of 'pursuing social justice' was a 'vacuous platitude'.

The Guardian

Even six months ago, Australia, having run the Proteas dangerously close and dispatched the Sri Lankans with contemptuous ease, landed in India with confidence.

The Guardian - Sport

In 1979, the prime minister, Jim Callaghan, was contemptuous of the leader of the opposition's feeble-looking stunts.

The Guardian

Still resident on the Lower East Side 33 years after her fridge-door epiphany, Pfahler is contemptuous of nostalgia.

The Guardian - Music

But what would America's schools look like under a president contemptuous of science and education?

The Economist

It's wonderful to listen to Mr Wilders pronounce the word linkse ("left"); he lingers on the "l" in a marvellously contemptuous fashion, every bit the stylistic equal of Rush Limbaugh.

The Economist

Showing a sense of humour, his lawyer has suggested that the city should cover Mr Filner's legal fees on the ground that he did not receive supposedly compulsory sexual-harassment training on taking office.Few see these responses as anything other than contemptuous.

The Economist

Quite simply, they could not stop themselves from seeking revenge on the man who has lambasted them in the most vociferous and contemptuous manner since becoming president.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "contemptuous", make sure to provide specific examples of their behavior or attitude to substantiate the claim. This adds credibility to your writing and clarifies the nature of their contempt.

Common error

Avoid using "contemptuous" to describe mild disagreements or simple dislike. This word carries a strong negative connotation and is best reserved for situations where the feeling of contempt is truly present and warranted.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "contemptuous" primarily functions to describe a subject (person, action, or expression) exhibiting or characterized by contempt. According to Ludwig AI, the word is grammatically correct. Examples show it modifies nouns to express disdain or lack of respect.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

26%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contemptuous" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective, perfect for conveying strong feelings of disdain or disrespect. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from reputable sources like The Guardian and The Economist. While versatile, remember that "contemptuous" carries significant weight, so ensure its use aligns with the intended level of intensity. Semantically related alternatives like "scornful" or "disdainful" offer similar meanings. In essence, use "contemptuous" judiciously to precisely and effectively communicate a sense of deep scorn.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scornful

Direct synonym, emphasizing the feeling of contempt.

disdainful

Similar to contemptuous, suggesting a sense of superiority and rejection.

derisive

Focuses on mockery and ridicule as an expression of contempt.

insolent

Highlights disrespect and rudeness, often in a defiant manner.

supercilious

Implies an arrogant sense of being above others.

cavalier

Suggests a dismissive and indifferent attitude, often masking contempt.

patronizing

Describes treating someone with condescension, hinting at underlying contempt.

disrespectful

General term indicating a lack of respect and possibly contempt.

scathing

Expressing strong criticism or contempt.

arrogant

Implies a feeling of superiority that can lead to contemptuous behavior.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "contemptuous" in a sentence?

Use "contemptuous" to describe someone's behavior, attitude, or expression when they show strong disdain or disrespect. For example, "He gave a "contemptuous look" to the suggestion".

What are some words similar to "contemptuous"?

Synonyms for "contemptuous" include "scornful", "disdainful", and "derisive". Choose the word that best fits the specific nuance of disrespect you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the word "contemptuous"?

Use "contemptuous" when describing a feeling or expression of deep dislike or disrespect. It's appropriate when someone is showing open disdain or scorn towards another person or idea.

What is the difference between "contemptuous" and "disrespectful"?

"Disrespectful" generally means a lack of respect, while "contemptuous" implies a stronger feeling of disdain and scorn. "Contemptuous" suggests a more intense and negative attitude than simply being disrespectful.