“Familiarity breeds contempt”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase Familiarity breeds contempt suggests that knowing someone or something very well can lead to a loss of respect for them or it.
Tone Cautionary
Where it comes from
The sentiment was expressed by various writers throughout history, including the English poet Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century.
Examples
- After living together for a year, their constant bickering proved that familiarity breeds contempt.
- In the office, it’s often said that familiarity breeds contempt, which can lead to tension among coworkers.
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