Word
cynical
Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
Meanings
Believing that people are not sincere and are mainly motivated by selfish reasons.
Showing distrust or sarcasm about good intentions, often through remarks or humor.
Definition
If someone is cynical, they expect others to act selfishly and doubt that people are honest or kind. A cynical person often questions good intentions and may assume there is a hidden motive. The word can describe attitudes, comments, jokes, or views about society and human behavior.
Examples
- He became cynical after being lied to at work.
- Her cynical comment ruined the hopeful mood.
- I try not to be cynical, but the promise sounds too good to be true.
- The film takes a cynical view of politics.
- Don’t laugh—I'm not being cynical; I'm being careful.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse cynical with skeptical; skeptical means needing evidence, while cynical suggests distrust of people’s motives.
More at B2 level
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- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.