subject of contempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subject of contempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is regarded with disdain or scorn. Example: "His actions made him the subject of contempt among his peers, leading to social isolation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In June 2010, he was a subject of contempt proceedings before the international criminal tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR).

The Guardian

In 1991, Whitlam stated that no future Governor-General was likely to act as Kerr did lest he also become the subject of "contempt and isolation".

Wikipedia

It's the sort of gentrifier's paradise that's become the subject of contempt in a southern town devoted to preserving its past.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

All the above is subject to contempt of court and protection of vulnerable defendants and witnesses – exceptions to immediate transparency that are fundamental to the efficient, effective functioning of the justice system.

The Guardian

The courage, can-do spirit, kindness and compassion with which my son approaches his daily challenges should be an inspiration — not the subject of bullying, contempt or pity.

The New York Times - Science

She is the subject of amused contempt among what we would describe as the post-68 generation; probably because she is remembered as the Constant Virgin - the sexual tease who hung on to her virginity through thick and thin.

The Guardian - Film

The union had defied that order for a day and could have been subject to contempt of court penalties and fines.

The New York Times

Had the sheriff refused to use the stun gun on the defendant "he would have been subject to contempt of court or fired," Silverman told HuffPost.

Huffington Post

The full extent of the problems, involving hundreds of people who were detained by police for as long as 66 hours before being charged with minor violations or being issued tickets, will be the subject of a contempt-of-court hearing on Sept. 27.

The New York Times

Abbasi, immune from liability for not saving Han's life, is still the subject of criticism, scorn and contempt.

Huffington Post

PaulBogoni.com is no longer active, and if PaulBogoni.org is not taken down, Ms. Gomez will be in violation of a court order and subject to contempt, Mr. Lin said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subject of contempt", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Is it about being scorned, ridiculed, or simply disliked? Choose the phrase that best reflects the intended emotion.

Common error

Avoid using "subject of contempt" when the situation warrants a milder term like "subject of disagreement" or "subject of debate". "Contempt" implies a strong feeling of disdain, not just mild disapproval.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subject of contempt" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It indicates the entity towards which feelings of disdain or scorn are directed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and usable in diverse written contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "subject of contempt" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe someone or something regarded with disdain or scorn. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for formal and informal contexts, though more common in formal settings such as news media and academic discussions. While "subject of contempt" can effectively convey strong disapproval, writers should carefully consider if the intensity of "contempt" aligns with their intended meaning, or if alternatives like "object of scorn" or "target of disdain" might be more appropriate. Despite its accurate usage, the phrase is considered relatively rare.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

object of scorn

Focuses on the feeling of disdain directed toward the subject.

recipient of scorn

Emphasizes the act of receiving contemptuous treatment.

target of disdain

Emphasizes the intentionality of the contempt directed at the subject.

butt of ridicule

Highlights the aspect of mockery and laughter associated with the subject.

prey to contempt

Highlights the defenselessness of the subject against contempt.

victim of derision

Underscores the suffering and negativity experienced by the subject.

focus of antipathy

Highlights the strong dislike and aversion towards the subject.

cause of disgust

Focuses on the repulsive nature associated with the subject.

source of aversion

Highlights the origin of a strong dislike or repulsion.

despised individual

Directly describes someone who is intensely disliked and scorned.

FAQs

What does it mean to be the "subject of contempt"?

To be the "subject of contempt" means that someone or something is regarded with disdain, scorn, or a feeling of intense dislike and disapproval. It implies a sense of being considered worthless or inferior.

What can I say instead of "subject of contempt"?

You can use alternatives like "object of scorn", "target of disdain", or "butt of ridicule" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "subject of contempt" formal or informal?

The phrase "subject of contempt" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in formal writing and speech due to its intensity.

How do I use "subject of contempt" in a sentence?

You can use "subject of contempt" to describe someone or something that is being regarded with disdain. For example, "His actions made him the subject of contempt among his peers" or "The policy became the subject of contempt due to its unfair implementation."