Definitions
- Describing a feeling of disdain or contempt towards someone or something. - Referring to a mocking or derisive attitude towards someone or something. - Talking about a facial expression or tone of voice that conveys contempt or disapproval.
- Describing a feeling of intense dislike or disrespect towards someone or something. - Referring to a behavior or attitude that shows extreme disdain or disregard for someone or something. - Talking about a facial expression or tone of voice that conveys strong disapproval or disrespect.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe negative attitudes or feelings towards someone or something.
- 2Both words can be used to describe facial expressions or tones of voice.
- 3Both words convey a sense of disrespect or disapproval.
- 4Both words can be used to describe behavior or actions that show disdain or contempt.
What is the difference?
- 1Intensity: Contemptuous is more intense than scornful, conveying a stronger sense of disrespect or dislike.
- 2Focus: Scornful emphasizes mockery or derision, while contemptuous emphasizes disrespect or disregard.
- 3Usage: Scornful is more commonly used in everyday language, while contemptuous is more formal and less common.
- 4Connotation: Scornful can be associated with a playful or teasing tone, while contemptuous is more serious and negative.
Remember this!
Scornful and contemptuous are synonyms that describe negative attitudes or feelings towards someone or something. However, contemptuous is more intense and formal than scornful, emphasizing strong disrespect or dislike. Scornful is more commonly used in everyday language and can be associated with a playful or teasing tone, while contemptuous is more serious and negative.
