Definition

The act of pretending to have beliefs, opinions, or virtues that one does not actually have; being insincere or deceptive about one's true feelings or beliefs.

Example

His hypocrisy was evident when he criticized others for being late while he himself was often tardy.

Conversation

Have you noticed the hypocrisy in some politicians lately?

Yeah, it's frustrating how they say one thing and do another.

Exactly! It makes it hard to trust what they say.

Totally, it's like they don't even realize how obvious it is.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypocrisy → It is formed from "hypokrisis" (Greek, meaning to answer or to interpret) and the prefix "hypo-" (meaning under or beneath). The term originally referred to the act of pretending to be something one is not, particularly in a theatrical context, where an actor would interpret a role beneath their true self.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'interpreting' ('hypokrisis') a role 'under' ('hypo-') their true self — that’s why hypocrisy means pretending to be something you are not.

Visually Confused Words