look down upon: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘look down upon’ mean?
The idiom "look down upon" means to feel superior to someone or something, or to have a negative opinion or judgement towards them.
Idiom Explorer
An idiom often used to describe a person who is disliked or considered bad, with negative qualities or behavior.
One of the most popular idioms in English is "rotten egg." This phrase describes a person who is considered bad or unpleasant. The idiom originated in the early 19th century and is still commonly used today.
The idiom "ride down" means to criticize, demoralize, or defeat someone or something relentlessly or continuously, often through stubborn persistence.
The idiom *rain down* means to fall or descend in large quantities or with force, often used metaphorically to describe a sudden and overwhelming occurrence or event.
The idiom "put someone in their place" means to assert one's authority or dominance over someone, often by reminding them of their lower status or making them feel inferior.
The idiom "put someone in their place" is commonly used in the English language to assert dominance or superiority over someone, often in response to their perceived arrogance or disrespect.
The idiom "put on a pedestal" means to admire or worship someone or something to an excessive extent, often idealizing them and treating them as if they are perfect or infallible.
The idiom "put down as" means to consider or categorize someone or something in a particular way based on their appearance or behavior, often without giving them a fair chance or considering other possibilities.
The idiom "put down" means to criticize or belittle someone or something, often in a demeaning or dismissive manner. It can also refer to physically placing an object or animal on the ground.
The idiom "play down" means to minimize or downplay the importance or significance of something, often by making it seem less serious or less significant than it actually is.
The idiom "on the outside, looking in" means to be excluded or feel excluded from a group or activity, typically observing it from a distance and feeling a sense of isolation or being left out.
Unveiling Unseen Power
The idiom "look down upon" is a commonly used phrase in English. It means to view someone or something with contempt or disdain. This figurative expression comes from the association of physical height with power and superiority. When someone looks down upon another person, it symbolizes a position of authority or superiority. This idea of superiority based on physical placement has been present in different cultures throughout history.
The idiom can be understood in the context of a hierarchical system where those who are higher are considered better or more important. It reflects the tendency to associate worth or value with physical placement. This concept can be seen in various societies and is often depicted in literature, speeches, and everyday conversations.
Although the exact origins of the idiom are uncertain, it has been used in literature dating back to the 16th century. Its usage has evolved over time and it can be applied to describe individuals who hold a disdainful attitude towards others or groups that consistently exhibit a sense of superiority. In this sense, the idiom "look down upon" serves as a tool for communication and expression, conveying the idea of contempt or condescension towards someone or something.
Understanding the meaning and usage of this idiom is crucial for effective communication. As language continues to develop and evolve, the idiom "look down upon" remains relevant in conveying the complexities of human emotions and relationships. It embodies the concepts of contempt and superiority, reminding us of the dynamics of power, hierarchy, and human emotions.
An idiom related to "look down upon" is "look down on". This idiom has a similar meaning, referring to the act of viewing someone or something with contempt or disdain. It is often used interchangeably with "look down upon". Both idioms convey the idea of superiority and condescension.
Another related idiom is "look down one's nose". This expression emphasizes the act of looking down upon someone or something with a sense of superiority and judgment. It implies a haughty attitude and a feeling of being better than others. Like the previous idioms, "look down one's nose" conveys contempt and disdain.
These idioms add depth and nuance to the concept of looking down upon someone or something. They emphasize different aspects of superiority, hierarchy, and judgment. By incorporating these related idioms into our language and communication, we are able to convey a range of emotions and attitudes towards others.
The idiom "look down upon" is a commonly used expression that denotes viewing someone or something with contempt or disdain. Its origins can be traced back to the association of physical height with power and superiority. The concept of superiority based on physical placement has been present in various cultures throughout history. This idiom serves as a tool for communication and expression, allowing us to convey the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Additionally, the related idioms "look down on" and "look down one's nose" further emphasize the ideas of superiority, hierarchy, and judgment. By incorporating these idioms into our language, we are able to express a range of attitudes towards others.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "look down upon" can be used in a sentence:
1. She always looks down upon people who don't have a college degree.
2. The wealthy businessman has a tendency to look down upon those he considers to be less successful than him.
3. Many employers tend to look down upon job applicants who have gaps in their employment history.
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