What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dislike
Example
I dislike spicy food. [dislike: verb]
Example
She has a strong dislike for horror movies. [dislike: noun]
despise
Example
I despise people who lie. [despise: verb]
Example
He has a deep-seated despise for authority figures. [despise: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dislike is more commonly used than despise in everyday language. Dislike is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while despise is more formal and less frequently employed.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dislike and despise?
Dislike is a more neutral and informal term, while despise is more formal and has a stronger negative connotation. Therefore, dislike can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while despise is typically reserved for more formal or serious situations.
