Basic Details
Word: Cynical
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Believing that people are motivated by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity.
Synonyms: Skeptical, doubtful, suspicious
Antonyms: Trusting, optimistic, naive
Idioms and Phrases
- Cynical view: A way of seeing things that suggests people are mainly acting for their gain. Example: "His cynical view of politics made it hard for him to believe in any candidates."
- Fearful of being a fool: Hesitant to believe in good because of worries about looking foolish. Example: "She was so fearful of being a fool that she doubted his kind intentions."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The cynical comments made by the critics revealed their lack of faith in the new film.
Example 2: Despite his cynical outlook, she still tried to show him the brighter side of life.
Example 3: Many people became cynical after witnessing repeated promises that were never fulfilled.
Fun Fact
The word "cynical" comes from the Greek word "kynikos," which means "dog-like." It is said that Cynics were a school of philosophers who believed that a simple life lived in virtue was the way to happiness, while being suspicious of society and its motives.
Famous Quote
"The only thing worse than a cynic is a cynic who knows what he is talking about." - G.K. Chesterton
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "cynical" mean?
a) Always cheerful
b) Distrustful of others' sincerity
c) Very trusting
d) Full of hope
Answer: b) Distrustful of others' sincerity
2. Which of these is a synonym of "cynical"?
a) Skeptical
b) Honest
c) Cheerful
d) Caring
Answer: a) Skeptical
3. What is the opposite of "cynical"?
a) Distrustful
b) Pessimistic
c) Trusting
d) Defensive
Answer: c) Trusting
4. Which sentence uses "cynical" correctly?
a) She was cynical about the new restaurant and never tried it.
b) The cynical dog wagged its tail when it saw food.
c) He was always cynical when talking to plants.
d) The book was cynical and very colourful.
Answer: a) She was cynical about the new restaurant and never tried it.
5. What idiom means someone is hesitant to believe in good?
a) Fearful of being a fool
b) Light as a feather
c) Thats the way the cookie crumbles
d) On cloud nine
Answer: a) Fearful of being a fool
