scoff at

USAGE SUMMARY

'scoff at' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to express disregard, disdain, or mockery. For example: "Karen scoffed at the idea that they could finish the assignment in time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Executives scoff at pennies.

The New Yorker

Then I scoff at her.

The New Yorker

You scoff at the thought.

The New Yorker

Democrats scoff at the figure.

The New York Times

I scoff at it.

The New Yorker

Many businessmen might scoff at that.

The Economist

Union officials scoff at both suggestions.

The New York Times

You'll scoff at the idea.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Louise scoffs at this.

The New Yorker

He scoffed at it.

The New York Times

Rockstar scoffs at that.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "scoff at" to express strong disagreement or disbelief, particularly when you want to convey a sense of superiority or disdain.

Common error

Avoid using "scoff at" when a more neutral term like "disagree with" or "question" would be more appropriate. "Scoff at" carries a strong negative connotation and should be reserved for situations where you want to emphasize contempt or derision.

Linguistic Context

Scoff at primarily functions as a verb phrase expressing disagreement, disbelief, or ridicule. It signifies a contemptuous rejection of an idea or suggestion. Ludwig examples show that it can also indicate derision towards individuals or groups. The phrase is often used to highlight a sense of superiority or dismissiveness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Wiki

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "scoff at" is a common verb phrase used to express derision, ridicule, or strong disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While prevalent in news and media contexts, its strong negative connotation suggests caution in formal settings. Alternatives include "mock" or "ridicule", depending on the desired nuance. Use "scoff at" when you want to convey a sense of superiority or contempt, but be mindful of the potential to offend or alienate your audience. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it is a useful tool for expressing critical perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Mock

Focuses on imitation or mimicking with derision, slightly differing from simply dismissing.

Ridicule

Emphasizes making someone or something the object of laughter or scorn.

Disdain

Highlights a feeling of contempt and superiority towards something.

Scorn

Indicates a strong feeling of contempt or disgust.

Disregard

Implies a lack of attention or respect, not necessarily involving active derision.

Dismiss

Suggests rejecting something as unworthy of consideration.

Pooh-pooh

An informal way to express contemptuous dismissal.

Laugh at

Focuses on the act of laughing as a form of derision.

Belittle

Emphasizes making someone or something seem unimportant.

Devalue

Highlights reducing the importance or worth of something.

FAQs

How can I use "scoff at" in a sentence?

Use "scoff at" when you want to show someone ridicules or mocks an idea. For example: "Many experts "scoff at" the notion of time travel."

What does it mean to "scoff at" something?

To "scoff at" something means to express contempt or ridicule for it. It implies a feeling of superiority or disbelief.

What are some synonyms for "scoff at"?

Alternatives to "scoff at" include "mock", "ridicule", "disdain", or "dismiss". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "scoff at" in formal writing?

While "scoff at" is grammatically correct, it can be considered informal due to its strong emotional connotation. In formal writing, consider more neutral alternatives like "disagree with" or "question" depending on context.