Cynically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คจ
cynically
[หsษชnษชk(ษ)li ]
Definition
in a cynical manner
Distrustful of human sincerity or integrity; believing that people are motivated purely by self-interest. Cynically can also refer to an attitude or viewpoint that is scornful or mocking.
Synonyms
disbelieving, distrustfully, skeptically.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cynically |
Use this word when someone shows a lack of trust or faith in people's sincerity or goodness. It often implies a belief that people are motivated by self-interest.
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| skeptically |
This word is used when someone questions the validity or truth of something, approaching it with a critical and questioning attitude. It may not always have a negative connotation but involves doubt and inquiry.
|
| distrustfully |
This word applies when someone shows a lack of trust, often accompanied by caution or suspicion towards others. It implies a sense of wariness.
|
| disbelieving |
This word is suitable when someone refuses to accept something as true or finds it hard to believe. It can just indicate doubt without a specific negative or mistrusting tone.
|
Examples of usage
- He smiled cynically, as if he had seen it all before.
- She responded to his compliments cynically, not believing a word he said.
- The politician cynically promised to lower taxes, knowing full well he had no intention of doing so.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Cynicism features prominently in works like 'Candide' by Voltaire, where characters encounter the harsh realities of life.
- Modern novels often use cynical characters to critique societal norms, such as Holden Caulfield in 'The Catcher in the Rye'.
- Cynical humor is a common trope in contemporary literature, revealing deeper truths about deception and authenticity.
Psychology
- Cynical thinking can stem from past disappointments, leading to a defensive attitude towards new relationships.
- Research suggests a high level of cynicism is linked to lower life satisfaction and psychological well-being.
- Cynicism may act as a protective mechanism, where individuals shield themselves from potential hurt.
Pop Culture
- Cynical humor is widely used in television shows such as 'The Simpsons' and 'South Park', where characters express skepticism about society.
- Movies often portray cynical anti-heroes who challenge traditional values, showcasing the complexities of human morality.
- Social media influencers sometimes adopt a cynical tone to critique consumer culture, resonating with audiences fed up with inauthenticity.
Philosophy
- Cynicism in philosophy advocates for self-sufficiency and living in accordance with nature, a stark contrast to materialistic pursuits.
- Famous Cynic philosophers like Diogenes challenged social norms by embracing a minimalist lifestyle and mocking societal pretensions.
- The Cynics emphasized the importance of living authentically, often provoking thought through their unconventional behaviors.
Origin of 'cynically'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'kynikos,' meaning 'dog-like,' originally associated with the Cynics, a group of philosophers who criticized societal norms.
- It started being used in English around the 17th century to describe a skeptical attitude towards human motives.
- Early Cynics believed in living a life of virtue in agreement with nature, often showing disdain for material wealth.
The word 'cynically' originates from the Greek word 'kunikos', meaning 'dog-like'. The term was first used in the 16th century to describe someone who held a belief that people were motivated by self-interest. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass a broader sense of distrust and skepticism towards human nature.