Definition

In a way that shows distrust or disbelief in people's motives or sincerity.

Example

She cynically dismissed his apology as insincere.

Conversation

I can't believe he said that about the project.

Yeah, it was pretty cynically put, wasn't it?

I wonder if he really thinks that way or just likes to stir things up.

Probably a bit of both, honestly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cynically → It is formed from "cynic" (from Greek "kynikos", meaning dog-like or pertaining to dogs, referring to the philosophical school of Cynicism) and the suffix "-ally" (meaning in a manner of). The word "cynically" means in a manner that reflects a belief that people are motivated purely by self-interest, akin to the original dog-like behavior of the Cynics.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'cynic' which relates to a belief that people act out of self-interest, and remember that 'cynically' means acting in that self-interested manner.

Visually Confused Words