contempt

[kənˈtempt]

contempt Definition

• 1. the feeling that a person or a thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn
• 2. disregard for something that should be taken into account

Using contempt: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "contempt" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He showed nothing but contempt for her ideas.

• Example

  The court found him guilty of contempt of court.

• Example

  She held the company in contempt for its unethical practices.

• Example

  The teacher's contempt for his students was evident in his dismissive attitude.

contempt Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for contempt

• disdain
• scorn
• disrespect
• disregard
• contumely

Antonyms for contempt

• respect
• admiration
• regard

Idioms Using contempt

• familiarity breeds contempt

  the more you know someone or something, the more likely you are to find fault with them

  Example

  After working together for years, their familiarity bred contempt and they could no longer work together effectively.

• in contempt of court

  disobeying or disrespecting the authority of a court of law

  Example

  The defendant was found in contempt of court for refusing to follow the judge's orders.

• pour/heap scorn on someone/something

  to criticize or ridicule someone or something in a harsh or contemptuous manner

  Example

  The critics poured scorn on the director's latest film, calling it a complete failure.

Phrases with contempt

• hold in contempt

  to regard someone or something with disdain or scorn

  Example

  The committee held the witness in contempt for refusing to answer their questions.

• show contempt

  to display a lack of respect or disdain towards someone or something

  Example

  The defendant showed contempt for the judge by rolling his eyes during the trial.

• beneath contempt

  so worthless or despicable as to not even deserve consideration or attention

  Example

  His behavior was beneath contempt and he was immediately fired from his job.

Origins of contempt

from Latin 'contemptus', meaning 'scorn'

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Summary: contempt in Brief

The term 'contempt' [kənˈtempt] refers to a feeling of disdain or disregard towards someone or something, often seen in situations where respect is expected. It can be shown through phrases like 'hold in contempt,' and idioms like 'familiarity breeds contempt,' which suggests that the more you know someone or something, the more likely you are to find fault with them. 'Contempt' can also be used in legal contexts, such as 'contempt of court,' which refers to disobeying or disrespecting the authority of a court of law.