What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pejorative
Example
The term 'snowflake' is often used in a pejorative sense to criticize people who are seen as overly sensitive. [pejorative: adjective]
Example
She was offended by the pejorative language used to describe her culture. [pejorative: noun]
contemptuous
Example
He spoke in a contemptuous tone when referring to his ex-girlfriend. [contemptuous: adjective]
Example
The politician's contemptuous remarks about immigrants caused outrage. [contemptuous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pejorative is more commonly used than contemptuous in everyday language. Pejorative is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while contemptuous is more specific and may be considered more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pejorative and contemptuous?
While both pejorative and contemptuous can be used in formal and informal contexts, contemptuous may be considered more formal due to its less frequent usage in everyday language.
