Thesaurus

despise

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

Some common synonyms of despise are contemn , disdain , and scorn . While all these words mean "to regard as unworthy of one's notice or consideration," despise may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing. // despises cowards

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

While in some cases nearly identical to despise , 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 might 'disdain' be a better fit than 'despise'?

The meanings of disdain and despise largely overlap; however, disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy. // disdained popular music

Q: When would 'scorn' be a good substitute for 'despise'?

While the synonyms scorn and despise are close in meaning, scorn implies a ready or indignant contempt. // scorns the very thought of retirement

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of despise

1 to dislike strongly

I despise anchovies on pizza, and I refuse to eat them!

Synonyms for despise

Words Related to despise

Phrases Synonymous with despise

have it in for

Near Antonyms for despise

enjoy,
relish

Antonyms for despise

love

2 to ignore in a disrespectful manner

a traitor hated and despised by the whole community

Synonyms for despise

Words Related to despise

Near Antonyms for despise

accept,
approve

Frequently Asked Questions About despise

How does the verb despise differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of despise are contemn, disdain, and scorn. While all these words mean "to regard as unworthy of one's notice or consideration," despise may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing.

despises cowards

When can contemn be used instead of despise?

While in some cases nearly identical to despise, 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 might disdain be a better fit than despise?

The meanings of disdain and despise largely overlap; however, disdain implies an arrogant or supercilious aversion to what is regarded as unworthy.

disdained popular music