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Exploring contempt: the nuances of "sneer" and "scorn"

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 05/10/2024, 21:49
English.me team member
Sneer and scorn. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "sneer" and "scorn" involve feelings of disdain or contempt towards someone or something. They are both associated with negative judgments and imply a lack of respect.

What is different?

A "sneer" is a facial expression or tone of voice that conveys disdain, often characterized by a slight raising of one corner of the lip. It can also be a verb meaning to express this contempt visibly or audibly. "Scorn", on the other hand, is primarily a noun that refers to the feeling or expression of contempt and disdain for someone or something. It can also be used as a verb meaning to express that contempt through words or actions, but it does not involve a specific facial expression like a sneer does.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for sneer) and scorn

Examples of usage

Sneer
  • He sneered at the suggestion, clearly finding it ridiculous.
  • Her sneer was unmistakable as she glanced at the outfit.
  • The politician sneered at his opponent's proposals during the debate.
Scorn
  • She looked at him with scorn, deeming his excuses pathetic.
  • He poured scorn on the idea, dismissing it entirely.
  • The artist faced scorn from critics who did not understand her work.