"Despise" is a strong term denoting deep-seated disdain. It is often employed to highlight moral or ethical contempt, particularly in matters of integrity, justice, and social behavior.
despise in English
- despise⇄despise, transitive verb, -spised,-spising.
to look down upon; scorn; think of as beneath one's notice, or as too mean or low for one to do.
Ex. I despise baseball but I love basketball. Fools despise wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:7). < - despise⇄noun despiser.
despise in Hindi हिन्दी
despise in Sindhi سنڌي
despise
Part of Speech
Verb
Pronunciation
English: /dɪˈspaɪz/
Definitions
- To regard with contempt or scorn.
- To dislike intensely or loathe.
- To view as worthless or beneath consideration.
Usage Examples
- She despises hypocrisy in all forms.
- He despised the corrupt politicians in his town.
- They despise those who exploit the poor.
Etymology
From Old French despire, from Latin despicere meaning "to look down on, scorn."
Synonyms
- Loathe
- Scorn
- Detest
- Abhor
- Disdain
Antonyms
- Admire
- Respect
- Esteem
- Love
- Revere
Translations
| Language | Translations | Pronunciations |
|---|---|---|
| French | mépriser | /me.pʁi.ze/ |
| Spanish | despreciar | /des.pɾeˈθjar/ |
| German | verachten | /fɛɐ̯ˈʔaxtn̩/ |
| Hindi | घृणा करना | /ɡʱɾɪ.ɳaː kər.naː/ |
| Tamil | அழிக்கப்படவேண்டியது | /aɻik.ka.pə.ɖə.veːɳ.ɖi.yəðʉ/ |
| Russian | презирать | /prʲɪ.zʲɪˈratʲ/ |
| Arabic | احتقر | /ɪħˈtaqar/ |
| Chinese (Mandarin) | 鄙视 | /bǐ shì/ |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
- British English: /dɪˈspaɪz/
- American English: /dɪˈspaɪz/
Historical Usage
The word "despise" has been used in English literature since the Middle Ages, often in religious and moral contexts to express disdain for sinful or unethical behavior.
Cultural Nuances
Commonly used in philosophical, political, and social discussions to convey moral or ethical disapproval.