Spanish Conversation · Level 142
45 words
Spanish word
cínico
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈθiniko/
Meaning
- adjectivecynical
Example
Tu comentario fue muy cínico.
Your comment was very cynical.
More examples
Respondió con un tono cínico que molestó a todos.
He replied with a cynical tone that upset everyone.
Core concept
A smirking face hiding contempt behind humor.
Common phrases
tono cínico
cynical tone
broma cínica
cynical joke
Similar words
irónico: Uses phrasing that says the opposite of the literal meaning to convey irony or criticism.
sarcástico: Makes cutting, contemptuous remarks intended to mock and humiliate.
desdeñoso: Shows condescending coldness, treating others or ideas as unworthy of respect.
despectivo: Conveys disdain through dismissive or insulting language aimed at belittling.
Definition in Spanish
Describe comentarios o actitudes llenas de ironía y desprecio, que se usan para criticar con sarcasmo.
Word origin
From Greek κυνικός 'doglike' and the name of the Cynic school, whose outspoken, disdainful style led to the adjective meaning 'sarcastic and contemptuous'.
Usage tips
- In everyday Spanish, exclaiming '¡Qué cínico!' normally accuses someone of being shameless or hypocritical rather than merely skeptical.