Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

cynical

[sin-i-kuhl] / ˈsɪn ɪ kəl /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“As the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles approach, we cannot allow what should be a celebration of honest sporting endeavor to be overshadowed by this cynical attempt to undermine clean sport,” Banka said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

Americans are in a cynical mood on foreign affairs, and many wonder why the U.S. should make sacrifices for an island some 6,000 miles away from Seattle.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

"But for people who are younger, who haven't been exposed to cynical marketing practices, these strategies may have more persuasive impacts."

From BBC • May 13, 2026

Or would I leave even more cynical about the parenting industry—which is, in this instance, charging me $84 for a three-month app subscription?

From Slate • May 10, 2026

Or was their tenure somewhat less cynical, more a matter of improvisation, motivated by the distant but vague object of forging a lasting harmony between Greek and Egyptian?

From "Circumference" by Nicholas Nicastro




Vocabulary lists containing cynical


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "cynical" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com