expression of contempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expression of contempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a statement or gesture that conveys disdain or scorn towards someone or something. Example: "His tone was filled with an expression of contempt as he spoke about the decision made by the committee."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Mr. Icahn characterized the poison-pill measure as an expression "of contempt for stockholders".

The New York Times

Mr. Miranda asked if there was an emoji for a common and profane expression of contempt.

The New York Times

In a final expression of contempt, she ended her speech with an expletive.

The New York Times

Trump's speech is littered with these phrases, every one an expression of contempt for his national audience.

The New Yorker

The President's speech is littered with phrases that are an expression of contempt for his national audience.

The New Yorker

Maybe his remarks weren't an expression of contempt for the media, but a rejection of a cynical game.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Then expressions of contempt were hurled at him.

The New York Times - Arts

With their expressions of contempt and indifference and anger, the subjects in the images address someone who is not yet present.

The New Yorker

In one rapid-fire sequence, Bill, reading Betty's expressions of contempt, frantically revises his college grade-point average upward several notches, then changes his hometown from Pittsburgh to Cleveland to somewhere in Westchester County.

The New York Times

With two employees exchanging romantic texts that also included expressions of contempt for Trump, it would be fairly easy for the predisposed to conclude that the entire investigation was contaminated.

The Washington Post

The lived experience of racism for members of low-status races can include daily insults and frequent acts and verbal expressions of contempt and disrespect, all of which have profound effects on social relationships.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To reinforce clarity, follow "expression of contempt" with a specific detail or example, such as "an expression of contempt for the court's decision."

Common error

While "expression of contempt" is accurate, it can sound overly formal or dramatic in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "disrespect" or "disdain" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expression of contempt" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific instance or demonstration of disdain. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "expression of contempt" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a demonstration of disdain or scorn. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers various examples across news, scientific, and academic sources. While versatile, it is more suitable for formal contexts. Alternatives such as "display of disdain" or "manifestation of scorn" can provide nuanced variations. Use this phrase when you want to precisely convey a feeling of disapproval or scorn in a clear and direct manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

display of disdain

Replaces "expression" with "display" focusing on the act of showing contempt.

manifestation of scorn

Uses "manifestation" to emphasize the outward sign of contempt.

act of derision

Focuses on a specific action demonstrating contempt, using "derision" to highlight mockery.

show of disrespect

Generalizes contempt to a broader lack of respect.

gesture of disdain

Highlights a non-verbal signal of contempt.

air of condescension

Emphasizes the superior attitude associated with contempt.

hint of scorn

Suggests a subtle indication of contempt.

tone of contempt

Refers specifically to the vocal inflection that conveys contempt.

sense of loathing

Conveys a feeling of intense dislike and aversion.

feeling of antipathy

Expresses a deep-seated aversion or dislike.

FAQs

How can I use "expression of contempt" in a sentence?

You can use "expression of contempt" to describe actions, words, or even facial gestures that show disdain. For instance, "His silence was an "expression of contempt" for their opinions."

What are some alternatives to "expression of contempt"?

Alternatives include "display of disdain", "manifestation of scorn", or "act of derision", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "expression of contempt" or "show of contempt"?

Both "expression of contempt" and "show of contempt" are correct. "Expression" emphasizes the communication of the feeling, while "show" emphasizes the outward display. The choice depends on the specific context.

What is the difference between "expression of contempt" and "feeling of contempt"?

"Expression of contempt" refers to the outward manifestation of contempt, while "feeling of contempt" refers to the internal emotion. You express contempt you feel contempt.