Scoffing: meaning, definitions and examples

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scoffing

[ˈskɒfɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

expression of contempt

To scoff means to show a lack of respect or to mock someone or something. It involves expressing scorn or derision, often in a mocking or dismissive way.

Synonyms

deride, mock, ridicule, sneer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
scoffing	Scoffing is used to show contempt or disdain, typically in response to an idea, suggestion, or someone's actions. It often carries a negative connotation. He scoffed at the suggestion that he should apologize. She couldn't help but scoff when she heard his excuse.
mock	Mock is used to imitate someone in a way that makes fun of them, often to make them seem foolish. This word is commonly used in everyday language and can range from playful to hurtful. They mocked his accent, making him feel self-conscious. The children were just playfully mocking each other during recess.
ridicule	Ridicule means to make fun of someone or something in a dismissive or scornful way. This word is often used when someone is belittled publicly. It has a negative connotation. The employees were afraid to voice their opinions for fear of ridicule. Her innovative ideas were met with ridicule by the conservative board members.
deride	Deride is used to mock or ridicule someone or something in a scornful manner. It is more formal and harsh compared to other synonyms. It carries a strong negative connotation. The critics derided the film for its lack of originality. He was derided by his peers for his unconventional ideas.
sneer	Sneer involves a scornful facial expression or remark that shows contempt. It is often used to describe a subtle, condescending attitude. Sneering often involves both facial expressions and words. He sneered at her efforts to improve the situation. The manager's sneer made it clear that he disapproved of the plan.

Examples of usage

He scoffed at the idea of working on weekends.
She scoffed at his suggestion that she should change her hairstyle.
Don't just scoff at their efforts, offer constructive criticism instead.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

act of scoffing

Scoffing can also refer to the act of showing contempt or mockery. It is the action of expressing scorn or derision towards someone or something.

Synonyms

derision, mockery, ridicule, scorn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
scoffing	Used when someone is expressing disbelief or contempt in a dismissive or mocking way. He scoffed at the idea of climate change She scoffed, not believing the news at all
mockery	Used when making fun of someone or something in a mean way, often to belittle or insult. Her attempt at singing was met with mockery from the audience The cruel mockery made him feel small and insignificant
ridicule	Used when someone is made to look foolish or is laughed at, often in a belittling manner. She felt the sting of ridicule after her error was pointed out His ideas were subject to public ridicule
scorn	Used when displaying strong disapproval or disdain, often involving feelings of superiority. She viewed his behavior with scorn The proposal was met with scornful looks
derision	Used in a situation where someone is subject to harsh and scornful ridicule, often implying a deep sense of disrespect. His suggestion was met with derision from his colleagues The comedian's performance was greeted with derision

Examples of usage

His constant scoffing at her ideas made her feel insecure.
The audience's scoffing at the performer's mistakes was discouraging.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'scoffing' originates from the Middle English 'scoffen,' which means to mock or jeer.
Related words in Old Norse include 'skop,' which refers to mockery or ridicule.
The evolution of the word reflects a strong cultural tendency towards humor and sarcasm in social interactions.

Psychology

Scoffing can be a defense mechanism, where an individual makes fun of a situation to mask their insecurities.
It often reflects social hierarchies, where laughter at something can reinforce a person's status compared to others.
Studies show that people may scoff at things they don’t understand, using humor to cope with discomfort.

Pop Culture

In films, characters who scoff often serve as comic relief, highlighting absurdity in serious scenarios.
Famous comedians have made careers out of scoffing at societal norms, turning their commentary into laughs.
Social media often amplifies scoffing, where memes and sarcastic comments reflect public mockery of trends or events.

Literature

Classic novels often depict scoffing in characters as a way to showcase social satire, revealing underlying societal flaws.
Scoffing is prevalent in poetry, where it can be used as a tool to emphasize disillusionment or criticism of societal values.
Authors like Mark Twain used scoffing extensively to critique the follies of humanity humorously.

Sociolinguistics

In conversations, the tone and context of scoffing can indicate relationships, whether playful teasing or serious derision.
Different cultures have varying thresholds for when scoffing is accepted and when it is considered offensive.
The use of technology has shifted scoffing from in-person interactions to virtual contexts, such as comment sections and forums.

Translations

Translations of the word "scoffing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 zombaria

🇮🇳 उपहास

🇩🇪 Spott

🇮🇩 ejekan

🇺🇦 глузування

🇵🇱 drwina

🇯🇵 あざけり

🇫🇷 raillerie

🇪🇸 burla

🇹🇷 alay

🇰🇷 조롱

🇸🇦 سخرية

🇨🇿 posměch

🇸🇰 posmech

🇨🇳 嘲笑

🇸🇮 posmeh

🇮🇸 háð

🇰🇿 мазақ

🇬🇪 დამცინავი

🇦🇿 istehza

🇲🇽 burla

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,419 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
30416 stoical
30417 wilfulness
30418 ablution
30419 scoffing
30420 sisterly
30421 spasmodically
30422 sardonically
...