Hypocrisy: meaning, definitions and examples
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hypocrisy
[ hɪˈpɒkrɪsi ]
in social behavior
The practice of claiming to have higher standards or more noble beliefs than is the case; pretense of having a virtuous character or principles.
Synonyms
deceit, duplicity, falsehood, insincerity
Examples of usage
- She was accused of hypocrisy for preaching about honesty while lying herself.
- His hypocrisy was revealed when his actions didn't align with his words.
in politics
The practice of professing beliefs, feelings, or virtues that one does not hold or possess; insincerity.
Synonyms
double-dealing, hypocriticalness, two-facedness
Examples of usage
- The politician's hypocrisy was evident when he publicly supported a cause he privately opposed.
- Voters were tired of the hypocrisy in politics and demanded transparency.
Translations
Translations of the word "hypocrisy" in other languages:
🇵🇹 hipocrisia
🇮🇳 पाखंड
🇩🇪 Heuchelei
🇮🇩 kemunafikan
🇺🇦 лицемірство
🇵🇱 hipokryzja
🇯🇵 偽善 (ぎぜん)
🇫🇷 hypocrisie
🇪🇸 hipocresía
🇹🇷 iki yüzlülük
🇰🇷 위선 (偽善)
🇸🇦 نفاق
🇨🇿 pokrytectví
🇸🇰 pokrytectvo
🇨🇳 虚伪 (xūwěi)
🇸🇮 hinavščina
🇮🇸 hræsni
🇰🇿 екіжүзділік
🇬🇪 ფარისევლობა
🇦🇿 riyakarlıq
🇲🇽 hipocresía
Word origin
The word 'hypocrisy' comes from the Greek word 'hypokrisis', which means acting on a stage, pretending to be someone you're not. In ancient Greek theater, actors would wear masks to portray different characters, hence the connection to portraying a false image. The concept of hypocrisy has been present throughout history, often associated with moral or ethical standards. It continues to be a topic of discussion in various fields, such as politics, religion, and personal relationships.
See also: hypocritical, hypocritically, hypocriticalness.