Definition of cynical
1 : having or showing the attitude or temper of a cynic: such as. a : contemptuously distrustful of human nature and motives … those cynical men who say that democracy cannot be honest and efficient.— Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Herein, how do you explain cynical to a child?
Today, the word ‘cynicism’ generally describes the opinions and actions of those who believe that self-interest is the primary motive of human behavior. These persons, called cynics, shy away from relying upon sincerity, human virtue, or altruism as motivations.
Beside this, is cynical an insult?
distrusting or disparaging the motives of others; like or characteristic of a cynic. showing contempt for accepted standards of honesty or morality by one’s actions, especially by actions that exploit the scruples of others. bitterly or sneeringly distrustful, contemptuous, or pessimistic.
Is cynical being negative?
When someone is being cynical they are choosing the negative. They make assumptions that are not necessarily true and they form beliefs that are based on fear and negativity. Being cynical has roots in fear and anxiety.
Is cynical the same as selfish?
is that selfish is holding one’s self-interest as the standard for decision making while cynical is of or relating to the cynics, a sect of ancient greek philosophers who believed virtue to be the only good and self-control to be the only means of achieving virtue.
Is it good to be cynical?
Psychologists tell us that being cynical is not healthy. Critics warn that cynicism will cause you to miss out on forming deep friendships and love. Neither is true for me. People say that cynical people are often depressed and have high rates of diseases.
What is an example of cynical?
The definition of cynical is having a belief that people only do things to serve their own needs. An example of cynical is someone who believes another only gave to charity to get a date with the person asking for the donation. (medicine, rare) Like the actions of a snarling dog. A cynic spasm.
What is another word for cynical?
Synonyms & Antonyms of cynical
- distrustful,
- mistrustful,
- negativist,
- negativistic,
- skeptical,
- suspicious.
What is opposite of cynical?
cynical. Antonyms: genial, lenient, complaisant, urbane. Synonyms: sarcastic, snarling, snappish, sneering, cross-grained, currish, carping.
Why do I feel cynical?
Cynicism is part of a defensive stance people take to protect themselves from getting hurt. It’s usually triggered by an experience of hurt or anger where a person allows these feelings to fester rather than dealing with them directly.