ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cynicism

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //ˈsɪnɪˌsɪzəm// UK //sˈɪnɪsˌɪzəm// cyn·i·cism

n. the belief that people are mostly selfish and only do things to help themselves. It is a negative way of looking at the world where you do not trust people's reasons for being kind.

n. an attitude of suspicion or skepticism regarding the motives of others, based on the belief that human conduct is motivated primarily by self-interest. Often implies a jaded or disillusioned worldview.


SIMPLE

His cynicism makes it hard for him to trust anyone.

CONTEXTUAL

The public's cynicism toward politicians has grown after years of broken promises and scandals.

COMPLEX

While some viewed the CEO's massive donation as a genuine act of philanthropy, others dismissed it with cynicism as a calculated move to improve the company's public image.

Origin

From Cynic + -ism.

Usage

Uncountable in its general sense; can be used with 'about' or 'toward' to specify the object of distrust.

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