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Hypocrisy: meaning, definitions and examples

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hypocrisy

 

[ hɪˈpɒkrɪsi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,778, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.