看不起

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Character Breakdown

Usage and Nuance

The phrase 看不起 (kàn bu qǐ) means "to look down upon" or "to despise" someone or something. It expresses a negative judgment, often implying contempt or disdain. It is commonly used in everyday speech to describe attitudes of superiority or prejudice.

Common Contexts

People often use 看不起 when talking about social status, education, abilities, or background. For example, someone might say 看不起学历 to criticize those who look down on people without formal education.

Collocations and Patterns

Register and Tone

看不起 is informal and can carry a strong emotional charge. It is often used in critical or confrontational contexts. Avoid using it in very formal or polite situations.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 看不起 with 看不起, which means "not eye-catching" or "unremarkable." 看不起 specifically conveys contempt, not just a lack of attention.

Example Sentences

He always looks down upon people who don't have a university degree.

Don't look down upon others because of their background.

She feels that her colleagues look down upon her work ability.