Hamlet 3.1 Word Nerd: Contumely

The video explores the peculiarities of words ending in 'Lee', which resemble adverbs like 'quickly' or 'gently', but are not. It highlights the oddity of such words and delves into the historical context of medieval English, where 'kontumli' was used as a verb to describe talking down to someone.

What is the nature of the word 'kontumli' as described in the video?

• It is uplifting and encouraging.

• It is condescending and humiliating.

• It is joyful and celebratory.

• It is neutral and indifferent.

Why does 'kontumli' appear to be an adverb?

• Because it ends in 'ly', like many adverbs.

• Because it is used in a sentence.

• Because it starts with a vowel.

• Because it is a common noun.

Which of the following words is 'kontumli' compared to in the video?

• Sadly

• Happily

• Gently

• Slowly

In medieval English, what was the function of the word 'kontumli'?

• It was a conjunction.

• It was a verb.

• It was an adjective.

• It was a noun.

What does it mean to 'kontumli' someone?

• To praise them.

• To talk down to them.

• To ignore them.

• To support them.