轻蔑 (qīng miè) is a verb meaning 'to scorn, to disdain' — it emphasizes a feeling of contempt or superiority, often shown in one's attitude or expression. It is stronger and more formal than 看不起 (kàn bu qǐ, 'to look down on'), which is more colloquial and focuses on belittling someone's worth. Compared to 鄙视 (bǐ shì, 'to despise'), 轻蔑 carries a colder, more dismissive tone, while 鄙视 is more about moral condemnation.