Hypocritical: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who pretends to have certain beliefs, attitudes, or feelings when they actually do not. It often carries a strong negative connotation.

• She criticized others for lying, which was hypocritical because she lied frequently herself

Refers to someone who doesn't express genuine feelings or thoughts, often used in social interactions that lack authenticity.

• Her apology seemed insincere, as she quickly moved on to another topic

A colloquial term used to describe someone who behaves differently with different people, usually betraying trust or revealing different opinions in different settings. It has a strong negative connotation.

• He acted friendly to her face but gossiped about her to others; he was truly two-faced

Pertains to actions or appearances that intentionally mislead or give a false impression. Usually, it is used to describe something that is tricky and misleading.

• The ad was deceptive, making it look like the product was much larger than it actually is

Describes someone who is deceitful and double-dealing. It is often used to talk about personal or professional relationships where there's betrayal involved.

• His behavior was duplicitous; he pretended to support her plan but then sabotaged it behind her back

Used when describing someone who criticizes others for behavior they themselves engage in. This word often carries a strong negative connotation.

• It's hypocritical of him to say he hates lying when he does it all the time.
• The politician was called hypocritical for opposing the tax increase publicly but benefiting from it privately.

Used to describe someone who is not truthful or does things that are not morally right. This word also carries a negative connotation.

• She was fired for being dishonest about her work hours.
• His dishonest behavior ruined his reputation.

Used to describe something that is not true or is incorrect. It can also be used to describe a person's insincerity.

• The news report was based on false information.
• She gave a false promise that she never intended to keep.

Used to describe someone who tries to appear more important, valuable, or talented than they actually are. This word also carries a negative connotation.

• His pretentious attitude made him hard to get along with.
• She made a pretentious remark about her extensive travels.

Used to indicate that something is pretended or faked, often emotions or feelings.

• He feigned interest in the conversation just to be polite.
• Her feigned surprise was not convincing.