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Exploring contempt: the nuances of "sneer" and "scorn"
Reviewed and edited by 
Lloyd Cooper 05/10/2024, 21:49
Lloyd Cooper 05/10/2024, 21:49English.me team member
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?
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.
- 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.
Difference
