Contempt refers to a strong feeling of dislike, disrespect, or disregard for someone or something that is considered unworthy, inferior, or despicable. It often involves looking down on others with a sense of superiority or scorn. Contempt can be expressed through words, facial expressions, or actions, and it can be harmful in relationships, workplaces, or social settings. In Indonesian, “contempt” can be translated as “penghinaan,” “rasa merendahkan,” or “ketidakhormatan.”
Synonyms of “Contempt”:
- Disdain (rasa merendahkan)
- Scorn (cemoohan)
- Disrespect (ketidakhormatan)
- Hatred (kebencian)
- Derision (ejekan)
- Mockery (olok-olok)
- Loathing (kejijikan)
- Arrogance (kesombongan)
- Snobbishness (kesombongan kelas sosial)
- Condescension (sikap meremehkan)
Example Sentences Using “Contempt”:
- He looked at his opponent with contempt, believing him to be unworthy.
- Her contempt for dishonesty made her an advocate for justice.
- The boss treated his employees with contempt, making them feel undervalued.
- He was charged with contempt of court for refusing to follow the judge’s orders.
- The teacher sensed contempt in the student’s tone when he responded rudely.
- She spoke with contempt about people who lacked ambition.
- The rich businessman showed contempt for the poor, refusing to help them.
- His contempt for authority often led to conflicts at work.
- They viewed the outdated traditions with contempt and wanted change.
- Contempt in a relationship can destroy trust and communication.
Related Words:
- Ridicule (penghinaan melalui ejekan)
- Arrogance (kesombongan)
- Superiority (rasa lebih unggul)
- Insolence (kesombongan dalam berbicara atau bertindak)
- Snobbery (kesombongan sosial)
- Rejection (penolakan)
- Disgust (rasa jijik)
- Indifference (ketidakpedulian)
Antonyms of “Contempt”:
- Respect (rasa hormat)
- Admiration (kekaguman)
- Appreciation (penghargaan)
- Affection (kasih sayang)
- Reverence (rasa hormat yang mendalam)
- Approval (persetujuan)
- Courtesy (kesopanan)
- Humility (kerendahan hati)
- Consideration (kepedulian)
- Friendliness (keramahan)
Phrasal Verbs Related to “Contempt”:
- Look down on – To regard someone with contempt (“She looks down on people who are less educated.”)
- Brush off – To dismiss someone or something as unimportant (“He brushed off their concerns with contempt.”)
- Talk down to – To speak to someone in a condescending way (“He talks down to his coworkers as if they are inferior.”)
- Put down – To insult or humiliate (“She constantly puts others down out of contempt.”)
- Sneer at – To express contempt through mocking expressions or words (“He sneered at their old-fashioned ideas.”)
Idiomatic Expressions Related to “Contempt”:
- “A slap in the face” – A strong sign of contempt or insult.
- “Turning one’s nose up” – Acting as if something or someone is beneath you.
- “Look down one’s nose at” – To treat others as inferior.
- “Have no time for” – To completely disregard someone or something.
- “Cold shoulder” – To ignore or treat someone with contempt.
How to Overcome or Handle Contempt
If you experience contempt in yourself or from others, consider these approaches:
- Practice humility – Recognize that everyone has strengths and weaknesses.
- Show empathy – Understand others’ perspectives instead of judging them.
- Communicate respectfully – Avoid using sarcastic or dismissive tones.
- Acknowledge differences – Just because someone is different doesn’t mean they are inferior.
- Surround yourself with positive influences – Engage with people who promote kindness and understanding.
Conclusion
Contempt is a destructive emotion that involves disdain, disrespect, and superiority toward others. It can damage relationships, create social divisions, and foster negativity. However, by choosing respect, humility, and understanding, we can replace contempt with kindness, appreciation, and meaningful connections.
