Phoneying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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phoneying
[ˈfoʊni ]
Definition
deceptive act
Phoneying refers to the act of being insincere or pretending to be something one is not. It often involves giving a false impression or misleading others about one's abilities or feelings.
Synonyms
deceiving, faking, misrepresenting, pretending.
Examples of usage
- He was caught phoneying his qualifications on his resume.
- She felt that her friend was phoneying their enthusiasm.
- Phoneying emotions can lead to misunderstandings in relationships.
- It's easy to spot someone phoneying their way through a conversation.
Translations
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Origin of 'phoneying'
The term 'phoney' dates back to the early 20th century, originally used in American slang. It is believed to be a variation of the word 'phony' (also spelled 'phoney'), which emerged in the early 1900s, associated with impostors or frauds. The exact origins are unclear, but it may be linked to 'phone', as in 'without substance', indicating something lacking authenticity. The word gained popularity during the 1920s and 1930s, particularly in jazz culture where appearing genuine was highly valued. Over the decades, the term has evolved but continues to encapsulate the essence of deceit and pretense in social interactions, often used to describe superficial behaviors or insincerity.