mockery / bargain
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mockery
Ridicule or derogatory, hurtful remarks about someone or something in order to make that person or thing look ridiculous.
Sein ungewöhnlicher Hut brachte ihm nur Spott und Gelächter ein.
His unusual hat brought him only mockery and laughter.
'Der Spott' (mockery) belongs to the verb 'spotten über' (+ accusative). When you 'über jemanden spotten' (mock someone), you make fun of that person.
Die Kinder spotteten über seinen alten Mantel.
The children mocked his old coat.
Common phrases are 'Spott ernten' (to be met with mockery) or the fixed combination 'Spott und Hohn' (mockery and scorn), used to intensify the ridicule.
Für seine Idee erntete er anfangs nur Spott.
At first, he was met only with mockery for his idea.
In the meaning 'Verhöhnung' (ridicule/mockery), 'Spott' is an uncountable noun. It is therefore not used in the plural.
Sein Gesichtsausdruck war voller Spott.
His facial expression was full of mockery.
The phrase 'für einen Spottpreis' (for a bargain price) is a fixed expression. It always means that something is extremely cheap.
Er hat das Fahrrad für einen Spottpreis bekommen.
He got the bicycle for a bargain price.
praise
'das Lob' (praise) and 'der Spott' (mockery) are clear opposites. 'Lob' is positive: you show recognition for a person or an achievement. 'Spott' is negative and hurtful: you make someone or something look ridiculous. Both can come as a reaction to behavior or an achievement, but their effect is very different. Praise strengthens a person; mockery can shame or hurt them.
Nach seinem Fehler wollte Paul keinen Spott von den anderen hören.
After his mistake, Paul did not want to hear any mockery from the others.
Das Lob des Trainers gab der Mannschaft neuen Mut.
The coach's praise gave the team new courage.