tone of contempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tone of contempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a manner of speaking or writing that conveys disdain or scorn towards someone or something. Example: "Her tone of contempt was evident as she dismissed his ideas without consideration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

General Discussion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

I'm still awake!' In this tone of contempt, or sarcasm, it's weird.

The New Yorker

There followed a withering, inside-out version of "It Had to Be You," whose usual mood of exultation was replaced by disgust, every "you" uttered in a tone of contempt.

The New York Times - Arts

He says this with a tone of contempt and a full-faced smirk that is a bit striking given that it would describe the life choice of many of his colleagues.

The New York Times

And second, Berman challenges the commentators Ian Buruma and Timothy Garton Ash for their qualified endorsements of Ramadan and their disparagements of Hirsi Ali, noting the "tone of contempt that so frequently creeps across discussions" about her, the "sneering masculine put-downs of the best-known feminist intellectual ever to come out of Africa".

The New York Times - Books

But the tone of contempt for the European Commission will worry many smaller member states.In this section Black sheep in the crimson dome Global ambitions v green concerns Princeling in trouble Devastating Winding down with a whimper Crank up the motor ReprintsTo many, the declaration is a German victory on substance and a French success on future form.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Mr Brennan strikes the right tone of reserved contempt.

The Economist

His tweets carried a tone of personal contempt.

The Washington Post

My inquiry was answered in a tone of undisguised contempt.

The Guardian

The tone of sneering contempt will grate as people feel a colder blast next year.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I hope you don't suppose those are real tears?" Tweedledum interrupted in a tone of great contempt.

The New Yorker

And a tone of sarcastic contempt for the authorities is evident in many of their postings, despite censors' efforts to remove, within hours, any that violate their guidelines.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's communication, use "tone of contempt" to precisely convey a feeling of disdain or scorn, ensuring it aligns with the overall sentiment of the passage.

Common error

Avoid using "tone of contempt" when a more subtle expression of disapproval is intended; ensure the described manner genuinely reflects strong disdain rather than simple disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tone of contempt" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes the manner of expressing contempt. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Books

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tone of contempt" effectively describes a manner of communication characterized by disdain or scorn. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. While the phrase is most commonly found in news and media, it also appears in literature and academic contexts. When using "tone of contempt", it's important to ensure that the context warrants such a strong expression and that you're not simply indicating disagreement or mild disapproval. Consider related phrases like "derisive tone" or "scornful voice" for similar, nuanced expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

derisive tone

Highlights the mocking or ridiculing aspect of the contempt.

scornful voice

Specifies that the contempt is expressed verbally, emphasizing the sound.

contemptuous manner

Focuses on the way something is done, highlighting the disdainful nature.

disdainful attitude

Shifts the focus to the underlying feeling or disposition of scorn.

sarcastic inflection

Indicates that the contempt is conveyed through sarcasm.

mocking delivery

Focuses on the act of delivering the words with a sense of ridicule.

patronizing tone

Suggests the contempt is expressed by treating someone as inferior.

icy tone

Conveys coldness and lack of emotion, implying contempt.

withering look

Moves away from tone to a visual expression of contempt.

smug tone

Emphasizes self-satisfaction and superiority as the means of expressing contempt.

FAQs

How can I describe a similar but milder expression than "tone of contempt"?

For milder expressions, consider using phrases like "tone of disapproval", "critical tone", or "disappointed tone" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "tone of contempt" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "tone of contempt" may be too strong for some formal contexts. Assess whether a more neutral or diplomatic phrasing would be more suitable for your intended audience.

What's the difference between "tone of contempt" and "attitude of contempt"?

"Tone of contempt" refers specifically to how the contempt is expressed (e.g., in speech or writing), whereas "attitude of contempt" describes the underlying feeling or disposition.

How to effectively use "tone of contempt" in a sentence?

To effectively use "tone of contempt", ensure it accurately reflects the speaker's or writer's sentiment and is evident through their words or actions. For instance, "His voice dripped with a "tone of contempt" as he dismissed their concerns."