utter disdain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utter disdain" is grammatically correct and is commonly used in written English.
It can be used when describing a strong feeling of contempt or disgust towards someone or something. It conveys a sense of complete and total disdain. Example: "The politician's actions were met with utter disdain from the public, who felt betrayed by his broken promises."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Not due to suspense, but due to my utter disdain for the infantile plotting.

The Guardian - Film

My fingers... 24 min: Tony Conroy shows utter disdain for my film recommendation.

The Guardian - Sport

"He's a man who has utter disdain for the legislature despite the fact that we're the appropriate body for budgeting".

The New York Times

She added that was especially true "as there are children involved, and I can only express my utter disdain for the pirates' actions".

The New York Times

To the Editor: It infuriates me to watch the Republicans' utter disdain for humanity as they vote to cut food stamps that so many depend on to survive.

The New York Times

Protectionist arguments were advanced and dismissed with rhetoric that will seem familiar.Familiar, too, is the politician's utter disdain for academic opinion and "theory".

The Economist

Instead of remorse, Ms. Richardson, Democrat of California, displayed more of what the Ethics Committee described as her "utter disdain" for attempts to investigate her disgraceful behavior.

The New York Times

- from Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986) Star Trek weighs in, with utter disdain,on those who use rules to trump common sense and courage.

The Guardian

Sprawled languorously on a couch, wearing an expression of utter disdain, Beatrice momentarily turns her head toward the camera, then looks away in abject disgust.

The New York Times

A tinhorn friend of ours informed us that basketball betting has never interested chronic horseplayers, and is viewed with utter disdain by horse bookies, however disreputable.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The Shard Valentine's Down With Dating, London, Wed Conjure some amore/utter disdain at this mid-week 'speed-hating' session.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utter disdain" to emphasize a complete lack of respect or strong dislike. It's more impactful than simply saying "dislike" or "disrespect."

Common error

While "utter disdain" is a powerful phrase, avoid using it in overly casual or trivial situations. Overusing it can diminish its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utter disdain" functions as a noun phrase, where "utter" modifies the noun "disdain", intensifying its meaning. It typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition, expressing the target of the strong negative emotion. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in describing reactions to actions or ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utter disdain" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase for expressing a strong feeling of contempt or disgust. Ludwig's AI confirms its proper grammatical standing, and the numerous examples highlight its prevalence across diverse contexts, especially in news and media. While versatile, it's crucial to employ it judiciously, avoiding overuse in casual conversations where its impact could be diluted. Alternatives like "complete contempt" or "absolute scorn" can offer slight variations in emphasis. When writing, remember that "utter disdain" is best suited for scenarios where a complete lack of respect or strong dislike needs to be emphasized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete contempt

Focuses on the feeling of superiority and lack of respect.

absolute scorn

Emphasizes the feeling of extreme dislike and rejection.

total abhorrence

Highlights a feeling of repugnance and aversion.

deep revulsion

Stresses the feeling of disgust and loathing.

intense antipathy

Focuses on the strong feeling of dislike or aversion.

profound aversion

Highlights a strong disinclination or dislike.

sheer loathing

Emphasizes a feeling of intense dislike and disgust.

unmitigated contempt

Highlights the absence of any moderating factors in the feeling of contempt.

unreserved detestation

Focuses on the lack of any reservations in expressing hatred.

unqualified disgust

Emphasizes the complete and total feeling of disgust.

FAQs

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

You can use "utter disdain" to describe a strong feeling of contempt or disgust towards someone or something. For example: "The politician's proposal was met with "utter disdain" by the opposition party."

What are some synonyms for "utter disdain"?

Alternatives to "utter disdain" include "complete contempt", "absolute scorn", or "total abhorrence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "utter disdain" or "complete disdain"?

Both "utter disdain" and "complete disdain" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Utter" often emphasizes the totality of the feeling more strongly, but the choice is largely stylistic.

What's the difference between "disdain" and "utter disdain"?

"Disdain" implies a feeling of contempt or lack of respect. Adding "utter" intensifies this feeling, suggesting a complete and total lack of regard or respect.