Cynical
ˈsɪnɪkəl
Definitions
Believing that people are motivated by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity.
ˈsɪnɪkəl
Distrustful of human sincerity or integrity
He has a cynical view of human nature.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who always thinks the worst will happen, or that people only care about themselves. Like when you're expecting a friend to cancel plans, even though they promised to come – that's a little cynical!
👶 For kids: When you think people are only pretending to be nice, and you don't trust them.
More Examples
She became cynical after experiencing many disappointments.
The movie presented a cynical portrayal of the corporate world.
How It's Used
"A therapist might help a patient overcome their cynical worldview by fostering trust."
"Many voters have become cynical about politicians' promises."
"After being betrayed, she developed a cynical outlook on love."
Idioms & expressions
cynical about something
To have a distrustful or negative view about a specific subject or aspect of life.
"He's become very cynical about politics after witnessing so much corruption."
a cynical remark/comment
A statement or observation that expresses a distrustful and often sarcastic or negative view.
"Her cynical remark about their marriage revealed her true feelings."
From Late Latin cynicus, from Greek kunikos ('dog-like'), originally referring to a school of philosophers in ancient Greece who emphasized virtue and self-sufficiency, often criticizing societal norms. The association with a negative worldview developed over time as a reflection of their critical approach.
The term 'cynical' has evolved from the philosophy of the Cynics, who embraced simple living and criticized societal norms, to its modern meaning of distrust and pessimism. References can be found in literature and philosophical works from ancient Greece to modern times.
Memory tip
Think of someone who always expects the worst in others. Like a dog (cynic’s origin) sniffing out hidden motives, they are cynical.