Contemn

To contemn is to regard someone or something as worthless or deserving of scorn. It involves a strong feeling of disdain and disrespect, often coupled with a sense of moral superiority. The act of contemning suggests a deliberate choice to hold someone or something in low esteem, actively rejecting their value or importance. This can be expressed through words, actions, or a general attitude of dismissiveness. The object of contemning might be a person, a belief, a practice, or even an entire group. It carries a heavy weight of disapproval, suggesting that the subject is unworthy of consideration or respect. The intensity of contemning can vary, ranging from mild disapproval to vehement hatred and disgust, and it typically implies a judgement based on one's own values and beliefs. The act often has the implicit purpose of distancing oneself from the object of contempt.

Contemn meaning with examples

• The politician, facing accusations of corruption, was shocked to see how quickly the public began to contemn him. His reputation, built over years of service, crumbled as people lost faith in his integrity. He saw his former supporters turning away, replacing their admiration with disdain and disbelief. The severity of public reaction forced him to acknowledge the gravity of the situation, and he retreated from public life.
• Her early works were initially contemned by the critics, who dismissed her style as amateurish and lacking in depth. The art world largely ignored her, leading to personal hardship and self doubt. Despite the negative feedback, she persevered and continued to develop her unique techniques, refusing to change her art to match what others wanted. Years later, those same critics would be forced to reassess their judgments.
• During the witch trials, those accused of witchcraft were widely contemned by their communities, their neighbors turning against them with accusations of evil. The fear and hysteria led to unjust accusations and wrongful convictions, often fueled by personal grudges and religious fanaticism. Families were torn apart, and innocent lives were tragically lost because of the society's fear and their eagerness to find a scapegoat.
• Some of the philosophers, who contemned the pursuit of wealth, would advocate for a life of simplicity and self-sufficiency. They believed that a preoccupation with material possessions distracted from spiritual development. They felt it fostered jealousy, greed, and other vices. The philosophers’ ideals resonated with many who felt alienated by consumerism and felt society had lost its moral compass and sense of purpose.