Cynical: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Cynical adjective. Believing that people are driven mainly by self-interest.
How to say it
SIN-ih-kul/ˈsɪnɪkl/
3 syllables, stressed on the first (SIN).
Cynical in a sentence
Years in politics had made her cynical about every promise.
Call me cynical, but the charity gala looked like a photo opportunity.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- sceptical
- distrustful
- jaded
- world-weary
Opposite:
- idealistic
- trusting
Where cynical comes from
From the Greek Cynics, philosophers named from kuōn, dog, for their scorn of comfort and convention.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
Call me _____, but the charity gala looked like a photo opportunity.
- candid
- cynical
- intransigent
Show the answer
cynical: Call me cynical, but the charity gala looked like a photo opportunity.