English–German

“cynical” in German

German

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈtsyːnɪʃ/

Example

Sie machte einen zynischen Kommentar.

She made a cynical comment.

Illustration for zynisch (cynical)

How to say “cynical” in German

“Cynical” in German is zynisch.

A cutting remark mocks another person while treating that person as foolish or beneath respect.

Full entry for zynisch: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with zynisch

Sein zynisches Lächeln verriet Skepsis.

His cynical smile revealed skepticism.

Tips for using zynisch

  • Zynisch is usually harsher and more contemptuous than German ironisch, which often describes verbal irony without open scorn.

“cynical” in other languages