Meaning
This is a compound directional verb meaning to look down on someone or regard them as inferior. The structure combines 瞧 (to look), 不 (not), and 起 (up), literally meaning 'cannot look up to' or 'not worthy of respect.' It expresses contempt, disdain, or the act of considering someone or something beneath oneself.
Usage
This is a common colloquial expression used in everyday speech to describe attitudes of superiority or contempt. It typically takes a person or group as its object. The structure is 瞧不起 + [person/thing]. Native speakers often use it to criticize arrogant behavior or to defend against perceived snobbery.
Examples
- 01他总是瞧不起农村来的人。.He always looks down on people from the countryside.
- 02别瞧不起自己，你很有能力。, .Don't look down on yourself; you are very capable.
Characters
Common collocations
- 瞧不起人to look down on people
- 被人瞧不起to be looked down upon by others
- 千万别瞧不起never look down on
Antonyms
Origin
The compound uses the directional complement structure common in Mandarin. The 不起 pattern (literally 'not up') appears in many verbs to indicate inability or unworthiness, creating a figurative sense of 'not able to regard highly.'