adjective
- believing that people are motivated purely by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity
- concerned only with one’s own interests and typically disregarding accepted standards in order to achieve them
Examples
- She became cynical about politics after the scandal.
- His cynical attitude made it hard for him to trust anyone.
- The company’s cynical marketing campaign exploited people’s fears.
- Don’t be so cynical – some people really do want to help.
- The politician’s cynical promises were designed only to win votes.
- After years of disappointment, he developed a cynical view of love.
- Her cynical laugh suggested she didn’t believe a word he said.