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

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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

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of contemn 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

Recent Examples of Synonyms for contemn

Verb

For the Post’s editorial board to disdain substantial Chinese production for the rest of the world is for those same editorialists to disdain the division of labor that is at the root of all productive advance.

— John Tamny, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025
Unlike drunkenness and hygiene issues — such as clipping fingernails and taking off shoes — which are widely disdained by fellow passengers, opinions on seat reclining mainly fall into two camps: those who say don’t do it, and others who argue the recline button exists for a reason.

— Monica Pitrelli, CNBC, 24 Dec. 2024