Antonyms for the phrase "paying respects" include showing contempt, ignoring, neglecting, dishonoring, and disrespecting. Showing contempt suggests a deliberate disregard for the person or situation at hand. Ignoring someone or something is the act of pretending they do not exist or do not matter. Neglecting may imply a lack of care or attention. Dishonoring means to show a lack of reverence or respect for someone or something that deserves it. Disrespecting someone is to show a lack of respect, which can be a sign of contempt or disregard for their wishes, feelings, or opinions. Antonyms of "paying respects" can showcase a lack of empathy, consideration, or admiration.