What does cynicalness mean?
Cynicalness is the quality of viewing other people and situations with distrust, especially the belief that human motives are usually selfish or that apparent generosity conceals self-interest. It can also suggest the habit of responding to earnest statements with skepticism, irony, or sarcasm. The word has a more formal and abstract character than cynicism, which is commonly used for a cynical attitude or set of beliefs. Cynicalness may be used critically, as when describing a public figure's distrust of others, but it can also carry a negative implication when applied to institutions, professions, or cultural attitudes. Historically, the word descends from a Greek term associated with the Cynic philosophers and with the image of a dog snarling or snapping at strangers. The modern noun makes explicit the underlying quality rather than focusing on a particular sarcastic remark or cynical action.
nounThe quality or state of being cynical, especially of being distrustful of others and assuming that human motives are usually selfish.
- The quality of being cynical, especially of distrusting others and believing that human conduct is usually motivated by self-interest.
"Her cynicalness made it difficult to share her enthusiasm for the proposed reform."
"Her cynicalness made it difficult to share her enthusiasm for the proposed reform."
"The politician's cynicalness was evident in his refusal to believe that the agreement would be honored."
This regular plural is rare; cynicalness is normally used as an abstract or uncountable noun.
"The study contrasts the cynicalnesses of two very different advertising campaigns."
From the Greek for “dog-like” to the modern idea of a knowing, mistrustful attitude, cynicalness has a remarkably pointed history.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does cynicalness come from?
Cynicalness was formed in modern English by adding the suffix -ness to cynical. Cynic comes through Latin from Greek kynikos, meaning “dog-like,” and was applied to the Cynic philosopher Diogenes and others who were regarded as contemptuous of convention and human motives. The Greek word is related to kyon, meaning “dog,” reflecting the historical image of Cynics growling or snapping at those they considered foolish.
How cynicalness is actually used
This is a formal or literary noun with an abstract, often critical tone. Cynicism is substantially more common in ordinary usage and may be preferable when referring to an attitude or body of skepticism.
Easily confused with cynicalness
Cynicism can refer to a cynical attitude or set of beliefs, whereas cynicalness specifically names the quality of being cynical.