# cynical

/ˈsɪnɪkəɫ/ (US) · /sˈɪnɪkəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cynical
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. distrusting motives

adjective · CEFR B2

believing that people are only interested in themselves and are not sincere.

For teachers: believing that human actions are motivated primarily by self-interest; skeptical of the integrity or sincerity of others.

- He has a cynical view of politics and thinks all politicians are liars.
- Many voters have become cynical about the electoral process, believing that corporate interests exert more influence than the public will.

### 3. Greek philosophy

adjective · CEFR C2 · Academic · Formal

relating to an ancient group of Greek thinkers called the Cynics.

For teachers: relating to the Cynics, a school of Ancient Greek philosophy that prioritised virtue and self-control over social conventions.

- The professor explained the Cynical school of thought and its influence on later philosophers.
- Cynical philosophy in its original form was less about modern pessimism and more about a radical rejection of material wealth and social status.

### 4. medical/facial

adjective · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Technical

a rare word for a facial expression that looks like a snarling dog.

For teachers: resembling the facial expression of a snarling dog, specifically in the context of facial nerve paralysis.

- The old medical textbook described the patient's expression as a cynical spasm.
- The term 'cynic spasm' was historically used to describe the involuntary contraction of facial muscles that mimics a canine snarl.

## Examples

- He has a cynical view of politics and thinks all politicians lie.
- After years of working in corporate sales, she developed a cynical attitude toward companies that claim to care about the environment.
- The author's cynical portrayal of the charity sector suggests that philanthropic endeavors are often little more than elaborate public relations exercises designed to obscure corporate malfeasance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.