Word: Whited Sepulcher
Definition:
A "whited sepulcher" refers to a person who appears good, virtuous, or moral on the outside but is actually corrupt, evil, or hypocritical on the inside. The term comes from a biblical reference where tombs were painted white to make them look beautiful on the outside, while inside they contained decay.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "whited sepulcher" to describe someone who pretends to be good or righteous but behaves poorly when not observed. It is often used in a critical or negative context.
Example Sentence:
"Despite his public speeches about honesty, many considered him a whited sepulcher because of his shady business dealings."
Advanced Usage:
In literature or more formal discussions, "whited sepulcher" can be used to analyze characters or moral dilemmas, especially in discussions about hypocrisy in society or politics.
Word Variants:
- The phrase doesn't have direct variants, but you could use "hypocrite" as a simpler alternative. - Related terms include "hypocrisy" (the practice of claiming to have moral standards to which one's own behavior does not conform).
Different Meaning:
The phrase itself does not have multiple meanings; it specifically refers to the idea of outward goodness masking inner corruption.
Synonyms:
- Hypocrite - Phony - Pretender - Deceiver - Fraud
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "whited sepulcher" is a specific phrase, here are some idioms related to hypocrisy: - "Two-faced" – someone who presents different faces to different people or situations. - "Putting on a façade" – pretending to be something one is not.
Conclusion:
Understanding "whited sepulcher" can help you recognize and describe situations where people or actions are misleading.