Definitions
- Describing a person or action that is deserving of contempt or scorn. - Referring to something that is low, mean, or unworthy of respect. - Talking about behavior or attitudes that are shameful or dishonorable.
- Describing a person or action that is deserving of strong condemnation or disgust. - Referring to something that is morally reprehensible or vile. - Talking about behavior or attitudes that are considered abhorrent or wicked.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe negative qualities or behaviors.
- 2Both words convey a sense of strong disapproval or condemnation.
- 3Both words can be used to describe people, actions, or attitudes.
- 4Both words have a negative connotation.
What is the difference?
- 1Intensity: Despicable is more intense and carries a stronger sense of moral outrage than contemptible.
- 2Scope: Despicable is broader and can be used to describe a wider range of negative behaviors or attitudes than contemptible.
- 3Usage: Contemptible is less common and more formal than despicable, which is more commonly used in everyday language.
- 4Connotation: Contemptible implies a lack of respect or worthiness, while despicable implies a sense of moral depravity or wickedness.
Remember this!
Contemptible and despicable are synonyms that describe negative qualities or behaviors. However, despicable is more intense and carries a stronger sense of moral outrage than contemptible. Despicable is also broader in scope and more commonly used in everyday language, while contemptible is less common and more formal. The difference in connotation is that contemptible implies a lack of respect or worthiness, while despicable implies a sense of moral depravity or wickedness.
