object of scorn

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "object of scorn" is correct and can be used in written English to refer to someone or something that is the target of ridicule or contempt.
Example sentence: The new policy quickly became the object of scorn among employees, who felt it was unfair and impractical.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

His eyes then dart to his next object of scorn.

The Guardian - Tech

The lawsuits have made Whitney the object of scorn, with some people suggesting that he's, well..

The Washington Post

He calls the work "a wilful romance with an object of scorn".

The Guardian - Music

When did the coffee-table book become an object of scorn?

Princeton University

She became an icon of hope for refugees and an object of scorn for populists.

The New York Times

Many pilots worry that their job is the object of scorn.

The Economist

— and made him an object of scorn among the many targets of these investigations.

The New York Times

But Iraq, the central government is an object of scorn and ridicule.

The New York Times

Even the government's heavy-handed effort to control the story has become the object of scorn among younger, savvier Chinese.

The New York Times

On both occasions, the object of scorn was a parliamentary bill that promised to sweep away "antiquated" licensing laws.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Teachers at expensive private schools are particular objects of scorn.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "object of scorn" when you want to emphasize that someone or something is viewed with contempt and dislike by a group of people.

Common error

Avoid using "object of scorn" when a milder term like "disappointment" or "criticism" would be more accurate. "Scorn" implies a strong feeling of contempt and derision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "object of scorn" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It identifies the entity towards which feelings of contempt and disdain are directed. Ludwig examples showcase its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Huffington Post

1%

Vice

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "object of scorn" is a frequently used noun phrase that describes someone or something viewed with intense dislike and contempt. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and academic writing. While alternatives like "object of disdain" or "target of scorn" exist, it's crucial to consider the intensity of the sentiment when choosing the most appropriate term. Remember to use it when a strong feeling of contempt and derision needs to be conveyed, avoiding overuse in milder situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

object of disdain

Replaces "scorn" with "disdain", suggesting a more aloof or intellectual contempt.

focus of scorn

Shifts the emphasis to the act of scorning, highlighting that something is being actively scorned.

target of scorn

Similar to "focus of scorn", but emphasizes the intentionality of the scorn.

object of ridicule

Replaces "scorn" with "ridicule", suggesting mockery or derision.

object of mockery

Similar to "object of ridicule", implying derision and mocking behavior.

object of derision

Replaces "scorn" with "derision", indicating contemptuous mockery.

targets of scorn

Plural form, indicating multiple objects being scorned.

object of loathing

Replaces "scorn" with "loathing", suggesting intense hatred and aversion.

a figure of contempt

Changes the structure to "figure of" and uses "contempt" instead of "scorn", emphasizing the feeling of disdain.

butt of jokes

Suggests that the subject is the target of humor, often in a negative way.

FAQs

How can I use "object of scorn" in a sentence?

You can use "object of scorn" to describe something or someone that is intensely disliked or ridiculed. For example, "The politician became an "object of scorn" after the scandal was revealed."

What's the difference between "object of scorn" and "object of ridicule"?

"Object of scorn" implies contempt and disdain, while "object of ridicule" suggests mockery and derision. While both are negative, "scorn" indicates a stronger feeling of dislike and disapproval.

What can I say instead of "object of scorn"?

You can use alternatives like "object of disdain", "target of scorn", or "butt of jokes" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "object of scorn" in formal writing?

Yes, "object of scorn" is appropriate for formal writing when you need to describe something or someone as being viewed with contempt. However, consider the audience and ensure that the strong language is suitable for the context.