Definition

In a way that is not sincere or honest, often pretending to be unaware of the truth.

Example

She disingenuously claimed that she had no idea about the problem, even though she was involved.

Conversation

Did you notice how she answered the question?Disingenuously, I think.

Yeah, it felt like she was trying to hide something.

Exactly! It makes it hard to trust her opinion.

Totally, honesty is so important in conversations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disingenuously → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "ingenuous" (from Latin "ingenuus", meaning native or freeborn, but in modern usage implies honesty or straightforwardness). The prefix "dis-" negates the quality of being "ingenuous", thus the word means not being straightforward or honest.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dis-' meaning 'not' and 'ingenuous' meaning 'honest' — so disingenuously means not being honest.

Visually Confused Words