cynical — believing that people are motivated purely by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: believing that people are motivated purely by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsɪnɪkəl/
Example Sentences
- My boss is so cynical that he thinks employees only work hard when they want a raise.
- Don't be so cynical about online reviews - not everyone is lying!
- His cynical comment about the wedding was: 'Another expensive way to announce a future divorce.'
cynical
ADJECTIVE[/ˈsɪnɪkəl/]
believing that people are motivated purely by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity
The cynical man refused his neighbor's sincere offer to help while carrying the heavy box himself.
She was cynical because she believed every compliment had a hidden motive. (🤨 Doubt + 🎭 Hidden Motive → Cynical)
After the clinical report, the cynical detective became even more skeptical of everyone's story.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From French 'cynique', derived from Greek 'kynikos' meaning 'dog-like'. The term originally referred to the Cynic school of ancient Greek philosophy, whose followers were called 'cynics' (literally 'dog-like') because they lived ascetically and criticized social conventions.
Breakdown
Greek 'kyn-' (dog) + '-ic' (adjective suffix meaning 'of or relating to') = cynic; + '-al' (adjective suffix) = cynical
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My boss is so cynical that he thinks employees only work hard when they want a raise.”
“Don't be so cynical about online reviews - not everyone is lying!”
“His cynical comment about the wedding was: 'Another expensive way to announce a future divorce.'”
“The newspaper's cynical coverage of the charity event focused only on the celebrities' expensive outfits.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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