Contemptuously: meaning, definitions and examples
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contemptuously
[kənˈtemptjuəsli ]
Definition
spoken language
in a scornful way that shows disdain or lack of respect
Synonyms
disdainfully, disrespectfully, scornfully.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contemptuously |
Used when you want to show intense dislike or lack of respect for someone or something. Often indicates a feeling of superiority.
|
| disdainfully |
Applied when showing a strong dislike and a sense of superiority. It's often used in more formal situations or when describing an attitude of haughty indifference.
|
| scornfully |
Employed when expressing an attitude of disdain mixed with mockery. It often implies that the person being scorned is considered foolish or inferior.
|
| disrespectfully |
Used when showing a lack of respect, often towards authority or social norms. This word can carry a negative connotation and is often associated with rude behavior.
|
Examples of usage
- She looked at him contemptuously.
- He spoke contemptuously of her work.
- She raised her eyebrows contemptuously at his suggestion.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'contemptus,' meaning 'scorn' or 'disdain.'
- It first appeared in English around the late 16th century, connected to feelings of strong disapproval.
- The prefix 'con-' means 'with,' hinting at a strong, negative feeling directed towards something.
Psychology
- Expressing contempt can be a form of defense mechanism, helping individuals distance themselves from discomfort.
- Studies show that contempt can have destructive effects on relationships, often leading to conflict and resentment.
- Psychologists suggest that contempt is one of the strongest predictors of relationship breakdown, more so than anger.
Literature
- In various literary works, characters display contempt to signify power imbalances, showcasing disdain for those perceived as inferior.
- Contemptuous dialogue often reveals deep-seated conflicts between characters, adding tension to the narrative.
- Famous authors, like Charles Dickens, used contemptuous characters to critique societal norms and injustices.
Pop Culture
- Contempt is often portrayed in movies through eye-rolling or sarcastic remarks, indicating characters' judgments.
- Television shows often use contemptuous humor, with characters expressing disdain for societal norms or conventions.
- Social media influencers might use contempt in their commentary to provoke reactions and highlight flaws in products or trends.
Communication
- Non-verbal cues, like a dismissive wave or a scoffing laugh, often accompany contemptuous statements, enhancing their impact.
- Contemptuous language can undermine constructive dialogue, leading to misunderstandings and escalated conflicts.
- In public speaking, showing contempt for opposing views can alienate an audience, highlighting the fine line between critique and disrespect.
Translations
Translations of the word "contemptuously" in other languages:
🇵🇹 desdenhosamente
🇮🇳 तिरस्कारपूर्वक
🇩🇪 verächtlich
🇮🇩 dengan menghina
🇺🇦 зневажливо
🇵🇱 pogardliwie
🇯🇵 軽蔑的に (けいべつてきに)
🇫🇷 avec mépris
🇪🇸 despectivamente
🇹🇷 aşağılayarak
🇰🇷 경멸적으로 (gyeongmyeoljjeogeuro)
🇸🇦 بازدراء
🇨🇿 pohrdavě
🇸🇰 pohŕdavo
🇨🇳 轻蔑地 (qīngmiè de)
🇸🇮 zaničljivo
🇮🇸 fyrirlitlega
🇰🇿 менсінбей
🇬🇪 დამცინავად
🇦🇿 təhqir edərək
🇲🇽 despectivamente