Basic Details
Word: Contempt
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A strong feeling of dislike or disrespect for someone or something.
Synonyms: Disdain, scorn, disrespect
Antonyms: Respect, admiration, honour
Idioms and Phrases
- Contempt of court: The act of showing disrespect for the authority of the court. Example: "The judge found the lawyer guilty of contempt of court for arguing with him."
- Look upon with contempt: To regard someone or something as inferior or unworthy. Example: "He looked upon cheating in exams with contempt, believing in honesty instead."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She spoke with contempt about the unfair treatment she had received at work.
Example 2: His contempt for those who did not follow the rules was clear in his expressions.
Example 3: The athlete faced public contempt after being caught cheating in the competition.
Fun Fact
The word 'contempt' originates from the Latin word 'contemptus', which means 'to scorn or despise'. This shows that contempt has long been associated with strong negative feelings towards others.
Famous Quote
"Contempt is the weapon of the weak; it is the weapon of the one who is refusing to deal with their own weaknesses." - John O'Donohue
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "contempt" mean?
a) A feeling of admiration
b) A strong feeling of dislike or disrespect
c) A form of happiness
d) A type of respect
Answer: b) A strong feeling of dislike or disrespect
2. Which of these is a synonym of "contempt"?
a) Honour
b) Scorn
c) Delight
d) Respect
Answer: b) Scorn
3. Which sentence uses "contempt" correctly?
a) She showed contempt for her mother's advice and did what she wanted.
b) He received contempt for winning the race.
c) The cat looked at the dog with contempt as they played together.
d) I feel contempt when I see flowers bloom.
Answer: a) She showed contempt for her mother's advice and did what she wanted.
4. Which idiom means to show disrespect in a legal setting?
a) Look upon with contempt
b) Contempt of court
c) To go against the flow
d) To turn a blind eye
Answer: b) Contempt of court
5. What is the opposite of "contempt"?
a) Disdain
b) Respect
c) Scorn
d) Disrespect
Answer: b) Respect
