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"Despise" vs. "loathe": two faces of disdain

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 01/10/2024, 03:20

English.me team member

Despise and loathe. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "despise" and "loathe" mean to feel a strong dislike or hatred for someone or something.

What is different?

"Despise" can imply contempt as well as dislike, while "loathe" generally indicates an intense aversion or disgust.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for despise) and loathe

Examples of usage

Despise

She despises dishonesty in any form.
I despise attending meetings that lead nowhere.
He despises people who are arrogant.

Loathe

I loathe going to the dentist, but I know it's necessary.
She loathes waking up early in the morning.
He loathes noisy environments.