contemptuous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
contemptuous Word Meanings
- showing disdain or scorn
- expressing a lack of respect
- derisive or mocking
contemptuous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
contemptuous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈtɛmptʃʊəs/
US
/kənˈtɛmp.tʃu.əs/
contemptuous Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'con-' (with) + 'temptus' (tamed, held) → Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English; Memory image: Imagine a person looking down on a tamed animal, symbolizing scorn and superiority, making you remember that contemptuous implies a flawed sense of dominance over others.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Contemptuous describes a face, voice, or attitude that shows strong disdain or scorn toward someone or something. It captures a sense of superiority and a lack of respect, beyond simply disliking an idea. In use, it often appears with a sneer, a curled lip, or a biting remark that signals the speaker believes the target is worthless or foolish. The word is not neutral and can color a sentence with moral judgment; it contrasts with milder terms like disdainful or sneering. Learners should note that contemptuous is typically directed at people or groups, and it can pair with verbs like give, utter, or look. Substitutes include disdainful, derisive, and sneering.
Usage Reminders
- Avoid using with yourself; contemptuous is about others.
- Pair with a noun or pronoun: contemptuous glance, contemptuous remark.
- Remember it implies moral judgment, not just dislike.
- Use in formal or literary contexts more often than casual speech.
- Distinguish from 'disdainful' (less intense) and 'derisive' (mocking).
- Check that the subject is a person or group, not a thing.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing contemptuous with contemptible (worthy of contempt).
- Thinking it means simply 'disgusted' or 'annoyed'; it's about attitude, not emotion alone.
- Assuming it can describe things or ideas equally, which it usually cannot.
- Using it for neutral or positive situations.
- Missing that it targets people or groups, not inanimate objects.
Thinking Differences
Contemptuous in English signals a strong moral judgment and a face or tone of superiority. Some learners mistake it for mere dislike, but it carries an accusatory edge—more severe than disdainful or skeptical. Think of it as a way to name a person’s overt feel of worthlessness about others.
Learning Tips
- Create sentences that show the contemptuous look, not just a dislike.
- Practice with synonyms: disdainful, derisive, sneering to notice differences.
- Note collocations: contemptuous glance, contemptuous remark, contemptuous tone.
- Record your own voice to hear the harsh, biting quality of the word.
- Read sample sentences from literary sources to see stronger usage.
- Avoid using with yourself; it should target others.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'contemptuous' mean?
A.Showing disdain or scorn
B.Showing kindness and respect
C.Exhibiting confusion
D.Demonstrating excitement
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'contemptuous' correctly?
A.She felt contemptuous of the rules that everyone else was following.
B.His contemptuous feelings led him to help others with joy.
C.The child gave a contemptuous smile after receiving a compliment.
D.They expressed a contemptuous attitude towards the movie's positive reviews.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'contemptuous'?
A.Affectionate
B.Grateful
C.Disdainful
D.Excited
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite word of 'contemptuous'?
A.Indifferent
B.Respectful
C.Disregarding
D.Critical
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might feel a strong sense of disdain?
A.She praised her friend's talents during the performance.
B.He felt a deep connection to the stranger who helped him.
C.A person might look disdainfully at a rude customer in a restaurant.
D.Everyone admired the artwork in the gallery.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App