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According to a common proverb, what breeds contempt?

contempt

[kuhn-tempt] / kənˈtɛmpt /




Example Sentences

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Mr. Payne’s dialogue studiously avoids over-emotionalism even when conflicts arise—as when Miriam reacts with contempt, and not a shred of maternal sympathy, to Margaret’s announcement that she’s pregnant.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 6, 2026

One is his contempt for those he regards as losers, and his determination never to be seen as one.

From BBC ● Nov. 4, 2026

De La Cruz’s contempt for her opponent, though, was not disguised.

From Slate ● Nov. 2, 2026

Cardellini’s Pamela Voorhees is what happens when women drinking from a bottomless well of contempt and human carelessness hit their limit.

From Salon ● Oct. 18, 2026

“Mercy me! I don’t know anything about love and such nonsense!” cried Jo, with a funny mixture of interest and contempt.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott


Vocabulary lists containing contempt

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