French Conversation · Level 104
60 words
French word
cynique
Pronunciation
IPA/sinik/
Meaning
- adjectivecynical
Example
Elle parle d'un ton cynique.
She speaks in a cynical tone.
More examples
Elle a affiché un sourire cynique.
She displayed a cynical smile.
Core concept
A person who meets kindness with a knowing sneer, assuming that hidden self-interest explains it.
Common phrases
un sourire cynique
a cynical smile
un rire cynique
a cynical laugh
Similar words
sarcastique: Using cutting irony to belittle or mock someone.
ironique: Expressing an opposite meaning through words or situations.
méprisant: Showing cold disdain toward someone through attitude or expression.
moqueur: Teasing someone in a way that makes them seem ridiculous.
Definition in French
Qui montre du mépris en doutant de la sincérité ou des bonnes intentions d'autrui.
Word origin
Cynique is a learned word from Latin cynicus, borrowed from Greek kynikos, which referred to the Cynic philosophers and their rejection of social conventions.
Usage tips
- Cynique has the same spelling in masculine and feminine singular forms, as in un homme cynique and une femme cynique.