Translation guide
To feel strong dislike or contempt for someone or something. In Japanese, this is expressed through various verbs and phrases that convey hatred, contempt, or looking down on someone.
Expressing strong dislike or contempt for a person, often with a moral or emotional judgment.
To despise, scorn, or look down on someone. This is the most direct equivalent and is commonly used for contempt.
He despises liars.
To detest or abhor someone, often with a strong emotional reaction. Slightly more intense than 軽蔑する.
She despises injustice.
To hate or detest someone. This is a strong word for hatred, often used for deep-seated animosity.
He despises the friend who betrayed him.
To look down on someone, to despise as inferior. Often used for social or intellectual superiority.
He despises people without a formal education.
To despise utterly, to loathe. A very strong and somewhat literary term.
His actions are despicable.
Expressing strong dislike or moral rejection of an abstract concept, action, or thing.
Expressing self-loathing or intense self-criticism.
軽蔑 (keibetsu) is contempt or scorn, often for moral or intellectual inferiority. 嫌悪 (ken'o) is disgust or abhorrence, a visceral reaction. 憎む (nikumu) is deep hatred, often personal and long-lasting. Choose based on the nuance: looking down (軽蔑), feeling disgusted (嫌悪), or hating (憎む).
While 軽蔑する is the closest equivalent, it can sound formal or strong. In casual speech, Japanese speakers might use 嫌い (kirai, 'dislike') or 大嫌い (daikirai, 'hate') for less intense feelings. Reserve 軽蔑する for clear contempt.
I despise his rude attitude.
He despised himself after failing.