Definition

Noun: 1. A cynical feeling of distrust: A general belief that people are motivated purely by self-interest; a skeptical, scornful, or pessimistic attitude regarding human sincerity or integrity. 2. A cynical remark or expression: An instance of expressing such a distrustful or scornful attitude.

Usage

Cynicism is used to describe a deep-seated attitude of doubt and negativity towards the motives, goodness, or sincerity of others. It often implies a belief that people act only out of selfishness.

Examples

• His constant cynicism about politics made it hard to have an optimistic conversation.
• She viewed the company's charitable donation with cynicism, suspecting it was just a public relations stunt.
• The novel is filled with a bitter cynicism towards modern society.

Advanced Usage

• "Cynicism" vs. "Skepticism": While skepticism is a questioning attitude towards knowledge or beliefs, cynicism is specifically a distrust of human motives, often assuming the worst.
  • Healthy skepticism led her to check the facts. Bitter cynicism led him to believe no one tells the truth.
• "To be met with cynicism": To be received with distrust or scorn.
  • The government's promises were met with widespread public cynicism.

Variants and Related Words

• Cynic (noun): A person who believes that people are motivated purely by self-interest.
  • He was such a cynic that he doubted even her genuine kindness.
• Cynical (adjective): Believing that people are motivated by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity.
  • She gave a cynical laugh when he said he was doing it out of charity.

Synonyms

• Distrust
• Skepticism
• Pessimism
• Mistrust
• Sarcasm (when expressed verbally)
• Scoffing

Related Phrases

• Jaded cynicism: A state of cynicism resulting from long experience or overexposure.
  • After 20 years as a reporter, he viewed the world with jaded cynicism.
• A veil of cynicism: A manner or attitude that hides true feelings behind cynical remarks.
  • He hid his disappointment behind a veil of cynicism.

Noun

1. a cynical feeling of distrust