When it comes to words that sound similar and have similar meanings, it’s easy to get them confused. One such pair of words is “contemptible” and “contemptuous.” While they may seem interchangeable, there are distinct differences in their meanings and usage.
Let’s define each word. “Contemptible” means deserving of contempt or scorn, while “contemptuous” means showing contempt or scorn.
So, which one is the proper word to use? The answer is both. It depends on the context and the intended meaning. If you want to describe something or someone that is deserving of contempt, use “contemptible.” If you want to describe someone or something that is showing contempt, use “contemptuous.”
Now that we have a better understanding of these two words, let’s dive deeper into their usage and explore some examples.
Define Contemptible
Contemptible is an adjective that describes something or someone deserving of contempt, scorn, or disrespect. It refers to actions, behavior, or attitudes that are considered despicable, shameful, or dishonorable. Contemptible can also refer to something that is of very poor quality, inferior, or worthless.
Define Contemptuous
Contemptuous is an adjective that describes a feeling or attitude of contempt, disdain, or scorn towards someone or something. It refers to behavior or speech that shows disrespect, arrogance, or superiority over others. Contemptuous can also refer to something that is done with a complete lack of respect or consideration for others.
| Contemptible | Contemptuous |
|---|---|
| Deserving of contempt | Showing contempt |
| Despicable behavior | Disrespectful behavior |
| Poor quality | Arrogant attitude |
| Inferior or worthless | Lack of respect for others |
It is important to note that while these two words are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings and should be used appropriately in context. Contemptible refers to something or someone that deserves contempt, while contemptuous refers to an attitude or behavior that shows contempt.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
As a writer, it is essential to have a good grasp of vocabulary to be able to communicate effectively. Two words that often cause confusion are contemptible and contemptuous. While they may sound similar, they have distinct meanings that should be used correctly in a sentence.
How To Use Contemptible In A Sentence
Contemptible is an adjective that describes something or someone deserving of contempt or scorn. It is often used to express a strong feeling of disapproval or disgust towards a person or thing. Here are some examples of how to use contemptible in a sentence:
- The politician’s actions were contemptible and caused outrage among the public.
- Her behavior towards her coworkers was contemptible and caused her to lose her job.
- The company’s treatment of its employees was contemptible and led to a boycott.
As seen in the examples above, contemptible is used to describe a person or thing that is considered low or unworthy of respect. It is important to use this word in the appropriate context to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.
How To Use Contemptuous In A Sentence
Contemptuous is also an adjective but has a different meaning than contemptible. It describes a feeling or attitude of contempt or disdain towards someone or something. It is often used to express a lack of respect or admiration for someone or something. Here are some examples of how to use contemptuous in a sentence:
- The coach’s contemptuous attitude towards his players caused a rift in the team.
- Her contemptuous remarks about his work caused him to lose confidence in his abilities.
- The critic’s review was filled with contemptuous comments about the director’s work.
As seen in the examples above, contemptuous is used to describe a feeling or attitude towards someone or something. It is important to use this word in the appropriate context to convey the intended meaning and avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.
More Examples Of Contemptible & Contemptuous Used In Sentences
In order to fully understand the difference between contemptible and contemptuous, it is important to see them in context. Here are some examples of how these words can be used in sentences:
Examples Of Using Contemptible In A Sentence
- The way he treated his employees was contemptible.
- It is contemptible to cheat on an exam.
- The politician’s actions were deemed contemptible by the public.
- His behavior towards his wife was utterly contemptible.
- The company’s treatment of its customers was contemptible.
- The way the company disposed of its waste was contemptible.
- The defendant’s actions were contemptible and deserving of punishment.
- The way the company avoided paying taxes was contemptible.
- It is contemptible to take advantage of someone’s vulnerability.
- The way the company exploited its workers was contemptible.
Examples Of Using Contemptuous In A Sentence
- She gave him a contemptuous look and walked away.
- He spoke to her in a contemptuous tone.
- The way he talked about his coworkers was contemptuous.
- She made a contemptuous remark about his appearance.
- His contemptuous attitude towards authority got him into trouble.
- The teacher’s contemptuous treatment of the students was unacceptable.
- He showed a contemptuous disregard for the rules.
- Her contemptuous behavior towards her colleagues was unprofessional.
- The way he dismissed her ideas was contemptuous.
- His contemptuous behavior towards his superiors was not tolerated.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
It is quite common for people to use the words “contemptible” and “contemptuous” interchangeably. However, this is a mistake that can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some of the common mistakes people make when using these words and tips on how to avoid them:
Using “Contemptible” Instead Of “Contemptuous”
One common mistake people make is using “contemptible” instead of “contemptuous”. While these two words may seem similar, they have different meanings. “Contemptible” means deserving of contempt or scorn, while “contemptuous” means showing contempt or scorn.
For example, if someone says “That person’s behavior was contemptible”, they are saying that the behavior was deserving of contempt or scorn. On the other hand, if someone says “That person’s behavior was contemptuous”, they are saying that the behavior showed contempt or scorn.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to remember that “contemptible” is used to describe something that deserves contempt or scorn, while “contemptuous” is used to describe someone who is showing contempt or scorn.
Using “Contemptuous” Instead Of “Contemptible”
Another common mistake people make is using “contemptuous” instead of “contemptible”. This mistake is the opposite of the first one. When someone uses “contemptuous” instead of “contemptible”, they are saying that something is showing contempt or scorn when they actually mean that it deserves contempt or scorn.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to remember that “contemptible” is used to describe something that deserves contempt or scorn, while “contemptuous” is used to describe someone who is showing contempt or scorn.
Confusing The Two Words In Writing
Finally, it’s easy to confuse these two words when writing. This can lead to confusion and miscommunication. To avoid this mistake, it’s important to take the time to double-check your writing and make sure you are using the correct word. If you’re not sure, look up the definition of each word to make sure you are using the right one.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between the words contemptible and contemptuous, context plays a significant role in determining which one to use. Both words are used to express a feeling of disdain or disrespect towards someone or something, but the subtle differences in their meanings can change depending on the context in which they are used.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between contemptible and contemptuous might change:
| Context | Contemptible | Contemptuous |
|---|---|---|
| Behavior | A person who engages in contemptible behavior is considered to be despicable or shameful. | A person who engages in contemptuous behavior is considered to be arrogant or haughty. |
| Actions | An action that is considered contemptible is seen as morally reprehensible or wicked. | An action that is considered contemptuous is seen as disrespectful or scornful. |
| Language | Using contemptible language is considered to be vulgar or offensive. | Using contemptuous language is considered to be insulting or derisive. |
As you can see from these examples, the choice between contemptible and contemptuous depends on the specific context in which they are used. It is important to consider the nuances of each word in order to accurately convey the intended meaning and tone.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using contemptible and contemptuous are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where these rules might not apply. Here are some explanations and examples for each case:
1. Colloquial Usage
In colloquial usage, the rules for using contemptible and contemptuous may not be as strictly followed. In informal conversations, people may use these words interchangeably without realizing the difference. For instance, a person might say, “I find his behavior contemptible” or “I find his behavior contemptuous,” without realizing that the latter is the correct word to use in this context.
2. Regional Differences
Regional differences can also affect the use of contemptible and contemptuous. In some parts of the world, the two words may be used differently than in others. For example, in British English, contemptuous is often used to mean “disdainful” or “insulting,” while contemptible is used to mean “despicable” or “worthy of contempt.” In American English, however, the two words are used more interchangeably.
3. Contextual Differences
The context in which these words are used can also affect their meaning. For example, if someone says, “He is a contemptible artist,” it might mean that the artist is not very good at what he does. However, if someone says, “He is a contemptuous artist,” it might mean that the artist is arrogant or dismissive of others’ opinions. Similarly, if someone says, “She gave him a contemptible look,” it might mean that the look was unkind or disrespectful. However, if someone says, “She gave him a contemptuous look,” it might mean that the look was full of disdain or scorn.
4. Nuances In Meaning
There are also some nuances in meaning that can affect the use of these words. For example, contemptible is often used to describe actions or behaviors that are considered morally reprehensible. Contemptuous, on the other hand, is often used to describe attitudes or behaviors that are considered arrogant or condescending. In some cases, the two words can be used interchangeably, but in others, there may be a subtle difference in meaning that affects their use.
Overall, while the rules for using contemptible and contemptuous are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where these rules might not apply. Understanding these exceptions can help you use these words more effectively and avoid common mistakes.
Practice Exercises
Understanding the difference between contemptible and contemptuous is crucial for effective communication. Here are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these two words:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blanks
Choose the correct word (contemptible or contemptuous) to fill in the blanks in the following sentences:
- His behavior was ___________, and I couldn’t stand to be around him.
- The way he spoke to his mother was so ___________ that it made my blood boil.
- She looked at me with a ___________ expression on her face, as if I were beneath her.
- The politician’s lies were so ___________ that I couldn’t believe anyone would vote for him.
- He thought he was better than everyone else, and his ___________ attitude showed it.
Answer Key:
| Sentence | Correct Word |
|---|---|
| 1 | contemptible |
| 2 | contemptuous |
| 3 | contemptuous |
| 4 | contemptible |
| 5 | contemptuous |
Exercise 2: Write Your Own Sentences
Write three sentences using each of the words (contemptible and contemptuous) correctly. Then, exchange your sentences with a partner and see if they can identify the correct word used in each sentence.
Explanation:
By practicing using these words in sentences, readers can improve their understanding and use of them. The exercises provide an opportunity to identify the correct word to use in a given context. Including answer keys or explanations helps readers to learn from their mistakes and reinforce their understanding of the words.
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between contemptible and contemptuous, it is clear that these two words are often misused and misunderstood. Contemptible refers to something or someone deserving of contempt or disdain, while contemptuous refers to the act of showing contempt or disdain towards something or someone.
It is important to use these words correctly in order to effectively communicate your thoughts and ideas. Misusing these words can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.
Key Takeaways
- Contemptible refers to something deserving of contempt or disdain.
- Contemptuous refers to the act of showing contempt or disdain towards something or someone.
- These words are often misused and misunderstood.
- Using these words correctly is important for effective communication.
Remember to always consider the context in which you are using these words, and to choose the word that best fits the situation. By continuing to learn about grammar and language use, you can improve your communication skills and avoid common mistakes.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.