Scoffing

Scoffing is the act of speaking to someone or about something in a scornful or mocking way. It often involves derision, disrespect, or open contempt, usually directed at a person, an idea, or a behavior that the scoffer views as foolish, absurd, or deserving of ridicule. The tone conveyed can range from subtle disdain to open laughter and jeering. Scoffing frequently stems from feelings of superiority, disapproval, or a desire to belittle. It can be expressed verbally through words, tone, and even body language, such as rolling of the eyes or a dismissive gesture. It can be destructive to interpersonal relationships and to collaborative environments.

Scoffing meaning with examples

• After hearing her ambitious proposal, the senior partners met her with open Scoffing, dismissing her ideas as naive and unrealistic. The blatant disrespect from her colleagues, coupled with their sarcastic remarks, left her feeling dejected. She regretted sharing her carefully thought out plan.
• The comedian, known for his edgy routines, found himself receiving Scoffing from the audience after a joke that targeted a sensitive cultural issue. The uncomfortable silence and scattered boos demonstrated the crowd's disapproval and the boundary he had crossed. This made him rethink his performance.
• During the debate, the politician reacted with Scoffing whenever his opponent brought up the subject of climate change. He openly mocked the scientific consensus, expressing incredulity and treating the matter with flippant disregard. This led his constituents to question his commitment to addressing environmental problems.
• Despite her serious injuries, the nurse gave a swift diagnosis, while her colleagues reacted with Scoffing, arguing about her inexperience in making these assumptions. After being ignored, she eventually walked out, leaving her patients in the hands of the ones who had disbelieved her.