utter derision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utter derision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express extreme contempt or ridicule towards someone or something. Example: "The critics responded with utter derision to the poorly executed film, leaving the director feeling disheartened."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"I just look at him and feel a sense of utter derision".

Independent

I am hoping that the presentation of a radio-cassette player from the swag-bag would be met with utter derision, and quite possibly a bullet.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Even if Humphries behaved like an utter cad on his reality TV show, making ungentlemanly remarks about Ms. Kardashian's derriere and whatnot, is that worthy of the current level of derision he's receiving?

The New York Times

The derision was instantaneous.

The Economist

"Captain America: utter, utter, utter tosh".

Independent

Derision greeted Allison's call.

Independent

Utter garbage!

The New Yorker

Utter frustration.

Independent

Utter nonsense!

The New York Times

Utter class.

The New York Times - Sports

"Utter shock".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utter derision" to express a strong negative reaction to something considered foolish, absurd, or completely unacceptable. It's most effective when the situation warrants a severe and dismissive response.

Common error

Avoid using "utter derision" in contexts that require mild disapproval or gentle criticism. The phrase's intensity can be disproportionate to minor issues, making your response seem overly harsh.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utter derision" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "utter" intensifies the noun "derision". This combination serves to express a complete or extreme form of contempt and ridicule, indicating a strong negative evaluation. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is considered correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utter derision" is a phrase employed to express intense contempt and ridicule. Though grammatically correct and usable, as Ludwig AI confirms, its frequency is rare. Predominantly found in News & Media, its purpose is to convey strong disapproval. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure its intensity aligns with your intended message. For milder expressions, explore alternatives like "mild skepticism" or "polite disagreement".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete contempt

Replaces "derision" with "contempt", emphasizing a feeling of worthlessness and disdain.

total scorn

Substitutes "derision" with "scorn", highlighting a feeling of intense dislike and disrespect.

absolute disdain

Replaces "derision" with "disdain", suggesting a feeling of superiority and aversion.

sheer mockery

Emphasizes the act of ridicule and making fun of something.

unmitigated contempt

Uses "unmitigated" for emphasis, suggesting contempt that is not lessened or softened.

pure ridicule

Emphasizes the lack of any positive feeling, focusing only on the act of making fun.

profound contempt

Replaces "utter" with "profound", which signifies a deep feeling of disrespect.

deep-seated scorn

Indicates that the scorn is ingrained and not easily changed.

intense mockery

Conveys a strong and powerful act of making fun of someone.

thorough contempt

Indicates contempt that is comprehensive and complete.

FAQs

How can I use "utter derision" in a sentence?

You can use "utter derision" to describe a strong feeling of contempt and ridicule. For example: "The proposal was met with "utter derision" by the committee".

What's the difference between "utter derision" and "slight disapproval"?

"Utter derision" signifies a complete lack of respect and often involves ridicule, while "slight disapproval" indicates mild disagreement or objection. They represent vastly different levels of negativity.

Are there situations where it's inappropriate to express "utter derision"?

Yes, using "utter derision" is inappropriate in professional settings or when addressing individuals deserving of respect. It's best reserved for situations where strong criticism is warranted and accepted.

What can I say instead of "utter derision" to express a milder form of disagreement?

Instead of "utter derision", you could use phrases like "mild skepticism", "polite disagreement", or "gentle criticism" to convey your reservations without causing offense.