cynically

Thân thiện

Larsen's frost-blackened lips curved cynically.

Definition

Adverb: * In a cynical manner; with cynicism: Acting or speaking in a way that shows a belief that people are motivated purely by self-interest, or a general distrust of sincerity or integrity. It often involves expressing scornful or mocking doubt about the goodness of motives or the value of something.

Usage

The adverb "cynically" describes how an action is performed or a statement is made. It modifies verbs to indicate that the action is done with a cynical attitude. * It is used to describe speech (e.g., said, remarked, observed, laughed). * It is used to describe actions or reactions (e.g., viewed, raised an eyebrow, smiled, dismissed). * It often precedes or follows the verb it modifies.

Examples

• Modifying speech:
  • "Nothing ever changes," he said cynically.
  • She cynically remarked that the politician's promises were just for the election.
• Modifying actions/reactions:
  • The veteran journalist cynically viewed the public relations campaign as pure spin.
  • Larsen's frost-blackened lips curved cynically.

Advanced Usage

• "To view/see something cynically": To interpret an event, action, or statement with distrust and skepticism, assuming hidden, self-serving motives.
  • The public viewed the corporation's sudden charity donation cynically, suspecting it was a ploy to improve its image after the scandal.
• "To laugh/smile cynically": To laugh or smile in a way that expresses scornful doubt or disbelief.
  • He just smiled cynically when I suggested everyone was telling the truth.

Variants and Related Words

• Cynical (adjective): Having or showing the attitude of a cynic.
  • a cynical view of human nature
• Cynicism (noun): The general philosophy or attitude of being cynical.
  • His constant cynicism made it hard to have an optimistic conversation.

Synonyms

• Skeptically: With doubt or questioning.
• Sardonically: In a grimly mocking or scornful way.
• Mockingly: In a way that makes fun of someone or something.
• Distrustfully: With a lack of trust.

Antonyms

• Naively: In a way showing a lack of experience or judgment.
• Credulously: In a way that is too ready to believe things.
• Optimistically: In a hopeful and confident way about the future.
• Trustingly: In a manner showing a willingness to trust.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To take something with a grain/pinch of salt: To be skeptical about the truth or accuracy of something. (This is a less harsh, more common expression for a similar skeptical attitude.)
  • I take his stories about his adventures with a grain of salt.

Học thuật

Adverb

1. with cynicism; in a cynical manner
   • Larsen's frost-blackened lips curved cynically