Unfaithfully: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in the context of romantic or close personal relationships to describe someone who has broken trust by being romantically or sexually involved with someone else.

• He cheated on her unfaithfully
• She discovered that he had been acting unfaithfully throughout their marriage

Often used in the context of betrayal in relationships, friendships, or loyalty to organizations. It highlights a lack of fidelity or faithfulness to a person or group.

• He was accused of acting disloyally to his team by sharing confidential information with a competitor
• She felt hurt when her friend spoke disloyally about her behind her back

Used when referring to general dishonesty, such as lying, stealing, or deceiving. Can be applied broadly across different situations, including work, friendships, and transactions.

• He acted dishonestly by not reporting all of his income on his taxes
• She gained the promotion dishonestly by taking credit for others' work

A word with strong negative connotations, used for actions that are deceitful and dangerous, often implying a severe breach of trust in a manner that could cause harm.

• The spy acted treacherously by selling national secrets to an enemy country
• His treacherous behavior nearly led to the company’s downfall

This word appears in the list twice. Refer to the first entry for its context and examples.

Use this word when someone lacks trust in others, expecting deception or harm. It also has a negative connotation.

• He eyed the stranger distrustfully as they approached.
• She spoke to the salesman distrustfully, wary of being swindled.

This word is used when someone questions the validity or truth of something, often requiring more evidence before believing. It can carry a neutral or mildly negative connotation.

• He looked at the miracle cure skeptically, needing more proof.

This word is used when someone believes that people are motivated purely by self-interest and typically distrusts their motives. It suggests a negative and skeptical view of human nature.

• He laughed cynically at the politician's promises.
• She viewed the charity event cynically, suspecting it was just for publicity.