Synonyms

look down on

Idioms

Also, look down one's nose at. Regard with contempt or condescension, consider oneself superior to. For example, When it comes to baking, Beth is a purist—she looks down on anyone who uses a mix, or Seniors have a way of looking down their noses at juniors. The first expression dates from about 1700, the second from about 1900.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Why do wealthy retirees look down on those with less savings?

From MarketWatch • May 20, 2026

"I'm not claiming that everyone should abandon marriage or look down on married people in any way," Seen says.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

When addressing someone they look down on or are disrespecting, the Yautja use wul, while someone they respect would be addressed as dau.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 10, 2025

Do you look down on huge planes and boats and Beyoncé birthday parties?

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 6, 2025

“All right,” the sheriff calls, turning his horse around so he can look down on us.

From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023