# insincere

/ˌɪnsɪnˈsɪɹ/ (US) · /ˌɪnsɪnsˈiə/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/insincere
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

not really meaning what you say or show. You use it for praise, smiles, or apologies that feel fake.

For teachers: lacking genuine feeling or conviction; saying or showing something not truly felt or believed. Often describes praise, sympathy, or apologies that appear false or calculated.

## Examples

- Her smile looks insincere and cold.
- He gave an insincere apology just to end the argument quickly.
- The politician's insincere promises of reform fooled few voters who remembered years of inaction.

## Synonyms

fake, hollow, artificial

## Antonyms

sincere, genuine, heartfelt

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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.