C1adjectiveformalemotionsrelationships
US/ˈskɔːrn.fəl/
UK/ˈskɔːn.fəl/
showing that you think someone or something is stupid or not worth respect
In context
She gave a scornful laugh when he said he would win.
The critics were scornful of the director's latest film.
He cast a scornful glance at the cheap furniture.
Words that go with scornful
adjective + noun
- scornful laughHis scornful laugh hurt her feelings.
- scornful lookShe gave him a scornful look.
- scornful toneHe spoke in a scornful tone.
- scornful remarkThe scornful remark made everyone uncomfortable.
adjective + preposition
- scornful ofMany experts were scornful of the plan.
adverb + adjective
- openly scornfulThe press was openly scornful of the team.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
She was scornful about my idea.Correct: She was scornful of my idea.