Meaning and Usage
"嘲笑" (cháo xiào) means to jeer at or ridicule someone. It often implies a negative attitude where the speaker mocks or scorns others, usually in a hurtful or disrespectful way.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used when describing social interactions where someone mocks another person's mistakes, dreams, or behavior. It carries a strong negative connotation and is not used in polite or neutral contexts.
Collocations and Patterns
- 嘲笑别人 (cháoxiào biérén): to jeer at others
- 被嘲笑 (bèi cháoxiào): to be jeered at
- 嘲笑的语气 (cháoxiào de yǔqì): a tone of ridicule
Usage Notes
When using 嘲笑, be aware it expresses contempt and can hurt feelings. It is stronger than simply laughing or smiling and often implies a social judgment. Avoid confusing it with 笑 (to laugh) which is neutral or positive.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse 嘲笑 with 讥笑 (jīxiào), which also means to sneer or mock but often carries a more sarcastic or subtle tone. 嘲笑 is more direct and openly scornful.