Scornfully Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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scornfully
[ˈskɔːrnfəli ]
Definition
in a contemptuous or disdainful manner
Scornfully is an adverb that describes the action of doing something with contempt or disdain. It implies a feeling of superiority or disrespect towards someone or something.
Synonyms
contemptuously, disdainfully, mockingly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scornfully |
Used when expressing contempt or disdain with a serious and harsh tone. It suggests a strong feeling of rejection or disapproval.
|
| contemptuously |
Used when showing a deep lack of respect or disregard for someone or something. It often implies a moral superiority. This word has a negative connotation.
|
| disdainfully |
Often used when expressing a feeling of superiority or indifference, usually in a soft or even elegant manner that still conveys strong disapproval.
|
| mockingly |
Used when ridiculing or making fun of someone or something in a sarcastic or derisive way. This word can be playful but is often negative.
|
Examples of usage
- He looked at her scornfully, his eyes filled with disdain.
- She spoke scornfully of his efforts, belittling his achievements.
- The teacher scornfully dismissed the student's excuses for not completing the assignment.
- I could tell by the tone of her voice that she was speaking scornfully of the new policy.
- The way he smirked scornfully at her suggested he didn't take her seriously.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, characters often express scournful remarks to portray disdain or superiority, highlighting social hierarchies.
- Classic works like Shakespeare's plays feature scornful dialogues to reveal character motivations and conflicts.
- Modern novels use scornful tones to critique societal norms, reflecting the author's viewpoint through the characters' interactions.
Psychology
- Expressing scorn often signals a defense mechanism, where individuals protect their self-esteem by belittling others.
- Psychologically, scorn can contribute to negative social interactions, creating barriers between individuals or groups.
- Research indicates that scornful communication can lead to an escalation of conflict, demonstrating its impact on relationships.
Pop Culture
- Scornful behavior is frequently depicted in movies, especially in scenes involving rivalry or jealousy, enhancing drama.
- Many famous quotes from iconic films showcase characters speaking scornfully, reinforcing memorable lines and humor.
- Social media often amplifies scornful comments, leading to trends that encourage users to engage in witty but sharp remarks.
History
- Throughout history, scornful attitudes have often accompanied shifts in power, such as during revolutions when the ruling class is ridiculed.
- Cultural movements, like Dadaism, used scornful art to challenge the norms of society, showcasing disdain for traditional aesthetics.
- Historical figures, like Marie Antoinette, faced scornful responses from the public, impacting their legacies and narratives.
Origin of 'scornfully'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'scorn' comes from the Old French 'escarnir,' which means to mock or deride.
- Scornful blends the base word 'scorn' with the suffix '-fully,' indicating the manner in which an action is performed.
- The etymology reflects a blend of disdain and contempt seen in various languages, emphasizing negative judgments.
The word 'scornfully' is derived from the noun 'scorn', which originated from Old French 'escarn' and Latin 'ex- (out of) + cornu (horn)'. The idea behind 'scorn' is the notion of turning up one's nose or looking down on something with disdain. The adverb 'scornfully' developed from this concept to describe actions done with contempt or disdain.