1
Core quality
Distrustful of people's motives and inclined to believe that self-interest rather than sincerity guides behaviour.
Example
The scandal made voters cynical about official promises.
cynical
/ˈsɪnɪkəl/ · SIN-ih-kuladjective
Distrustful of people's motives and inclined to believe that self-interest rather than sincerity guides behaviour.
Use cynical to express this relationship precisely: distrustful of people's motives and inclined to believe that self-interest rather than sincerity guides behaviour.
What cynical Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Attributive or predicative use
Use this adjective before a suitable noun or after a linking verb such as be or seem.
Example
Her analysis is sceptical without becoming cynical.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact descriptive quality matters; a related word may overlap without conveying the same trait.
Example
A cynical observer assumed that every donation sought publicity.
Use cynical Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The scandal made voters cynical about official promises.
Her analysis is sceptical without becoming cynical.
A cynical observer assumed that every donation sought publicity.
Precision Matters
Cynical overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
cynical
vs.Means distrustful of people's motives and inclined to believe that self-interest rather than sincerity guides behaviour.
skeptical
Means doubtful, questioning, or not easily convinced without sufficient evidence.
cynical
vs.Means distrustful of people's motives and inclined to believe that self-interest rather than sincerity guides behaviour.
credulous
Means too ready to believe claims and therefore easily deceived.
cynical
vs.Means distrustful of people's motives and inclined to believe that self-interest rather than sincerity guides behaviour.
candid
Means honest, direct, and unguarded in expression.
cynical
vs.Means distrustful of people's motives and inclined to believe that self-interest rather than sincerity guides behaviour.
benevolent
Means well-meaning, kindly, and inclined to help others.
Test cynical in Context
They distrust the speakers' motives and assume self-interest.
1
After years of broken promises, residents became ___ and treated every new pledge as a publicity stunt.