CONTEMN Synonyms: 53 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'contemn' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of contemn are despise , disdain , and scorn . While all these words mean "to regard as unworthy of one's notice or consideration," contemn implies a vehement condemnation of a person or thing as low, vile, feeble, or ignominious. // contemns the image of women promoted by advertisers

Q: When is 'despise' a more appropriate choice than 'contemn'?

While the synonyms despise and contemn are close in meaning, despise may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing. // despises cowards

Q: When can 'disdain' be used instead of 'contemn'?

The words disdain and contemn can be used in similar contexts, but disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy. // disdained popular music

Q: When might 'scorn' be a better fit than 'contemn'?

While in some cases nearly identical to contemn , scorn implies a ready or indignant contempt. // scorns the very thought of retirement

contemn

verb

kən-ˈtem

Definition of contemn next

as in to disdain

to show contempt for arrogant critics who contemn the general public's taste in art

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb contemn differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of contemn are despise, disdain, and scorn. While all these words mean "to regard as unworthy of one's notice or consideration," contemn implies a vehement condemnation of a person or thing as low, vile, feeble, or ignominious.

contemns the image of women promoted by advertisers

When is despise a more appropriate choice than contemn?

While the synonyms despise and contemn are close in meaning, despise may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing.

despises cowards

When can disdain be used instead of contemn?

The words disdain and contemn can be used in similar contexts, but disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy.

disdained popular music

When might scorn be a better fit than contemn?

While in some cases nearly identical to contemn, scorn implies a ready or indignant contempt.

scorns the very thought of retirement

Examples of contemn in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Consequently, the Sadrists were contemned and discounted by Iraq’s liberal elite who form the core of the ICP. —

Benedict Robin, Washington Post, 7 June 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'contemn.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.