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contempt

Meaning in simple English, pronunciation and examples

Pronunciation: US /kənˈtɛmpt/

contempt means: A strong feeling that someone or something deserves no respect.

noun

LACK OF RESPECTC1

A strong feeling that someone or something deserves no respect.

  • She looked at him with contempt.
  • His voice was full of contempt.
  • They showed contempt for anyone who disagreed.

How to use it: contempt for someone/something (She felt contempt for his dishonest behavior.); treat someone with contempt (He treated the waiter with contempt.)

Similar words: scorn, disdain

Opposites: respect, admiration

Common phrases: contempt for someone, with contempt, utter contempt, treat with contempt

DISGRACEC2

The state of being thought worthless or treated without respect by others.

  • The disgraced official fell into contempt.
  • His name was held in contempt throughout the town.
  • The scandal brought the family into public contempt.

Similar words: disgrace, dishonor

Opposites: honor

Common phrases: fall into contempt, held in contempt

Questions about contempt

What does contempt mean?

A strong feeling that someone or something deserves no respect.

What is contempt in other languages?

Türkçe: küçümseme · Español: desprecio · Français: mépris · Deutsch: Verachtung · Italiano: disprezzo · 日本語: 軽蔑

How do you pronounce contempt?

It is pronounced /kənˈtɛmpt/.

How do you use contempt in a sentence?

She looked at him with contempt. His voice was full of contempt.

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