contempt
word
/kənˈtɛmpt/
kuhn-TEMPT
/kəntˈɛmpt/
kuhn-TEMPT
Definition
A strong feeling that someone or something is not worthy of respect; a mix of dislike and lack of respect.
Usage & Nuances
Formal or strong in tone; often used with 'for,' as in 'contempt for authority.' Not the same as 'hate' (which is stronger). Legal phrase: 'held in contempt' means refusing to obey the court. Common confusions: contempt vs. disdain (very similar, but 'contempt' is stronger and more emotional).
Spanish: desprecio - desdénPortuguese (BR): desprezo - desdémPortuguese (PT): desprezo - desdémChinese (Simplified): 蔑视 - 轻视Chinese (Traditional): 蔑視 - 輕視Hindi: घृणा - तिरस्कारArabic: ازدراء - احتقارBengali: অবজ্ঞা - ঘৃণা (respect-এর অভাব)Russian: презрениеJapanese: 軽蔑 - 侮蔑Vietnamese: sự khinh thườngKorean: 경멸 - 멸시Turkish: aşağılama - küçümseme - hor görmeUrdu: تحقیر - حقارتIndonesian: penghinaan - rasa hina
Example Sentences
She looked at him with contempt.
basic
He has nothing but contempt for cheaters.
basic
His voice was full of contempt.
basic
She couldn't hide her contempt for the unfair decision.
natural
People sometimes show contempt for rules they find silly.
natural
He was held in contempt of court for refusing to answer questions.
natural