B2nounformalemotionssociety
US/kənˈtempt/
UK/kənˈtempt/
a strong feeling that someone or something is worthless and deserves no respect
In context
She looked at him with open contempt after hearing his excuse.
He has nothing but contempt for people who lie to get ahead.
The judge held the man in contempt of court for shouting.
Words that go with contempt
verb + noun
- show contemptHe showed contempt for the rules.
noun + preposition
- contempt forThey felt deep contempt for the corrupt officials.
- contempt of courtHe was fined for contempt of court.
adjective + noun
- deep contemptHer voice was full of deep contempt.
- open contemptThe crowd treated the speaker with open contempt.
verb + preposition
- hold in contemptMany people hold the system in contempt.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
contempt toCorrect: contempt for