open contempt for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "open contempt for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a clear and visible disdain or disrespect towards someone or something. Example: "His open contempt for the rules was evident during the meeting, as he openly mocked the guidelines set by management."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

He has open contempt for women.

The Guardian

He also notices Mr. Wiseau's open contempt for women.

The New York Times - Books

Gunaratna, the terrorism expert, says he believes Jaffar's open contempt for bin Laden is disingenuous.

The New York Times - Magazine

We showed open contempt for the alleged ghost in the Northumbrian fishing pub, and so on, and on.

The Guardian - Travel

The Black Panthers were known for their open contempt for the police, and officers did find guns on the premises.

The New York Times

But he displayed open contempt for those who disagreed with him, and he dismissed the voices of many of his constituents.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"That momentum is producing an open contempt of the state".

The New York Times

Old intelligence hands recognize "receptors of ground-truth" when they occur, and the open contempt shown for Putin pointed to trouble for his planned return.

Huffington Post

I find this scepticism – and, in the case of VS Naipaul, open contempt – towards any movement for progressive change fascinating.

The Guardian - Books

McChrystal voiced open contempt in the article for President Obama and his administration's policies.

Los Angeles Times

The White House -- Rahm Emanuel in particular -- and some congressional leaders showed open, naked contempt for the wishes of a huge amount of their own supporters.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "open contempt for" when you want to emphasize that the disdain is not hidden or subtle. It is a strong and direct expression.

Common error

While "open contempt for" is acceptable in many contexts, consider more nuanced language in formal writing to avoid sounding overly aggressive. Alternatives like "strong disagreement with" or "serious concerns regarding" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "open contempt for" functions as a descriptor, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate the subject's feeling of strong disapproval and disrespect. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid English phrase. Example: "He displayed open contempt for those who disagreed with him."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "open contempt for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that serves to denote a clear and visible feeling of disdain or disrespect. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, according to Ludwig, its usage spans various contexts, though it should be wielded with caution in highly formal settings where more nuanced language may be preferred. Related phrases offer alternative ways to express similar sentiments, varying in intensity and focus. Despite its acceptability, writers should avoid overuse and choose their words carefully, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, ensuring the tone aligns with the intended message and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unmasked contempt

Refers to contempt that is not hidden or disguised.

blatant disregard for

Emphasizes a lack of attention or consideration.

outright disdain for

Highlights a strong feeling of dislike and disrespect.

obvious disdain

Focuses on the readily apparent nature of the disdain.

unconcealed scorn for

Suggests a visible and unhidden feeling of contempt.

evident disrespect for

Focuses on the clear manifestation of a lack of respect.

flagrant disregard

Emphasizes a conspicuous and offensive neglect.

explicit loathing of

Indicates a pronounced and unambiguous hatred.

marked antipathy towards

Implies a distinct and noticeable aversion.

unrestrained aversion to

Highlights the lack of control in expressing dislike.

FAQs

How can I use "open contempt for" in a sentence?

You can use "open contempt for" to show a clear and visible disdain or disrespect towards someone or something. For example: "His open contempt for the rules was evident during the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "open contempt for"?

Some alternatives to "open contempt for" include "blatant disregard for", "outright disdain for", or "unconcealed scorn for", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "open contempt for" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, using "open contempt for" in formal writing may come across as too aggressive. Consider using more measured language such as "strong disagreement with" or "serious reservations about" to maintain a professional tone.

What does "open contempt for" imply?

"Open contempt for" implies a clear, visible, and often unapologetic disdain or disrespect for someone or something. It suggests that the feeling is not hidden or subtle.