despise
What does "despise" mean?
To despise someone or something is to feel a deep sense of contempt, hatred, or strong dislike for them. It suggests that you believe the object of your feelings is worthless, inferior, or morally beneath you. The mental image is of looking down at someone with a curling lip, feeling that they are beneath your notice or respect. This is a strong, serious word that carries more weight than "dislike" or even "hate." It implies a judgment of character or quality. It is often used in formal writing or dramatic contexts to describe a profound lack of respect, such as despising a coward, a liar, or a corrupt system.
"despise" in conversation
Discussing a villain
I really despise how he treats his employees.
I really despise how he treats his employees.
It’s truly shameful behavior.
It’s truly shameful behavior.
Used here to express strong moral condemnation.
Reflecting on past choices
I despise the person I was back then.
I despise the person I was back then.
We all grow, Alex. Don't be so hard on yourself.
We all grow, Alex. Don't be so hard on yourself.
Shows how the word can be used for self-reflection.
"despise" in a sentence
I despise cold weather.
I despise cold weather.
He despised the way they lied to him.
He despised the way they lied to him.
She despised the hypocrisy inherent in the political system.
She despised the hypocrisy inherent in the political system.
