scoff
What does "scoff" mean?
To "scoff" means to speak about someone or something in a scornfully derisive or mocking way. The mental image is of someone curling their lip, perhaps letting out a sharp, dismissive huff or a dry laugh, to show they believe an idea is ridiculous or unworthy of serious attention. You generally use this word when someone is being dismissive or arrogant. It is often followed by the preposition "at." It implies that the speaker feels superior to the subject they are scoffing at, suggesting that the idea is beneath them or obviously false.
"scoff" in conversation
Debating a new policy
They actually think this plan will save money?
They actually think this plan will save money?
I know, I just scoffed when I saw the budget report.
I know, I just scoffed when I saw the budget report.
Used to describe a reaction of disbelief mixed with disdain.
Reviewing a friend's idea
I'm going to start my own business by selling air.
I'm going to start my own business by selling air.
Don't scoff at me! It's a real concept.
Don't scoff at me! It's a real concept.
Used as a command to stop someone from belittling your plans.
"scoff" in a sentence
He scoffed at the idea of working on the weekend.
He scoffed at the idea of working on the weekend.
The critics scoffed at her latest performance, calling it amateurish.
The critics scoffed at her latest performance, calling it amateurish.
Even though he scoffed at the warnings, he secretly took them to heart.
Even though he scoffed at the warnings, he secretly took them to heart.
