What's the difference between
and
Enter two words to compare and contrast their definitions, origins, and synonyms to better understand how those words are related.

Contemptuous vs Respectful - What's the difference?

contemptuous | respectful |

As adjectives the difference between contemptuous and respectful

is that contemptuous is showing contempt; expressing disdain; showing a lack of respect while respectful is marked or characterized by respect; as, respectful deportment.

contemptuous

English

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • Showing contempt; expressing disdain; showing a lack of respect.
  • * {{quote-book, year=1922, author=(Ben Travers)
    • , chapter=5, title= A Cuckoo in the Nest , passage=The most rapid and most seductive transition in all human nature is that which attends the palliation of a ravenous appetite.

    Derived terms

    * contemptuously

    Related terms

    * contempt

    respectful

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Marked or characterized by respect; as, respectful deportment.

    • Antonyms

    * disrespectful

    Related terms

    * respectfully * respectfulness