Meaning
藐视 means to regard someone or something with contempt or as unworthy of respect. It conveys a strong sense of looking down on others from a position of superiority, often with an attitude of dismissiveness. The word combines 藐 (small, insignificant) with 视 (to look at), literally meaning to view something as small or insignificant.
Usage
This is a formal, literary word typically used in written Chinese or formal speech. It carries a strong negative connotation and is often used to criticize someone's arrogant attitude. Common in contexts discussing discrimination, contempt for rules or laws, or describing someone's condescending behavior toward others.
Examples
- 01他藐视所有的规章制度，最终受到了处罚。, .He disregarded all rules and regulations, and was ultimately punished.
- 02我们决不能藐视任何一个对手。.We must never underestimate any opponent.
Characters
Common collocations
- 藐视法律to disregard the law
- 藐视权威to defy authority
- 藐视一切to scorn everything
Antonyms
Origin
藐 originally meant 'small' or 'distant' in classical Chinese, while 视 means 'to look at.' Together they form a compound meaning 'to look at (something) as small/insignificant,' which evolved into the modern meaning of viewing with contempt.