contemptuous comment

[/kənˈtɛmptʃuəs ˈkɑːment/]
noun phrasepl: contemptuous comments
comentário desdeñoso / observação desdenhosa
1. a remark or statement that expresses scorn, disdain, or disrespect toward someone or something
His contemptuous comment about her abilities was uncalled for and hurtful.
Seu comentário desdeñoso sobre as habilidades dela foi desnecessário e ofensivo.
2. a dismissive or insulting remark that shows one considers someone or something to be worthless or beneath consideration
She made a contemptuous comment about the proposal without even reviewing it.
Ela fez uma observação desdenhosa sobre a proposta sem sequer analisá-la.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, making contemptuous comments is generally viewed negatively in professional and social settings. In Brazil, directness varies by region—Rio tends to be more casual about verbal sparring, while São Paulo business culture expects more formality. In the USA, particularly in NYC, 'throwing shade' or making sarcastic remarks is sometimes normalized in casual settings but remains inappropriate in formal contexts. The expression reflects broader cultural attitudes about respect and hierarchy in communication.
NYC Slang
disrespectful crack / shade / salty comment / burn
Synonyms / Sinônimos
derisive remarkscornful commentinsulting remarkdisparaging commentsnide remarksarcastic comment
Antonyms / Antônimos
complimentary remarkrespectful commentpraiseflattering remarkencouraging comment

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
comentário desdeñoso / observação desdenhosa
Standard usage throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
comentário de pouco caso / fala desrespeitosa
More casual, colloquial expressions common in carioca speech
São Paulo
comentário arrogante / observação de desprezo
More formal business context usage
Portugal
comentário desprezador / observação de desprezo
European Portuguese variant with slightly different word choices

Related Words

contemptdisdainscornderisioninsolencedisrespect

Related Idioms & Phrases

a backhanded compliment
a low blow
to throw shade
to take a dig at someone
to look down one's nose at someone
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