C2adjectiveformalemotionsrelationships
US/dɪsˈdeɪn.fəl/
UK/dɪsˈdeɪn.fəl/
showing that you think someone or something is not good enough to respect
In context
She gave the cheap watch a disdainful glance and walked away.
He was disdainful of anyone who had not studied at a top university.
The critic wrote a disdainful review that hurt the young author.
Words that go with disdainful
adjective + preposition
- disdainful ofThe chef is disdainful of fast food.
adjective + noun
- disdainful lookShe gave him a disdainful look across the table.
- disdainful toneHis disdainful tone made everyone uncomfortable.
- disdainful glanceA disdainful glance was all I got in reply.
- disdainful smileHe answered with a disdainful smile.
- disdainful attitudeHer disdainful attitude toward newcomers upset many people.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
disdainful to peopleCorrect: disdainful of people