CYNICISM Synonyms: 76 Similar and Opposite Words

cynicism

noun

Definition of cynicism

as in desperation

cynical beliefs; beliefs that people are generally selfish and dishonest Nothing could change her cynicism about politics.

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of cynicism Some of them have become much more interested in politics in the world around them and others feel a kind of growing cynicism or kind of skepticism about the institutions around them. — Dana Taylor, USA Today, 24 July 2026 Their cynicism is still there, but it’s carried by brighter melodies and a willingness to let the music speak as loudly as the message. — Sophie Miller, Rolling Stone, 19 July 2026 But key voters in Pennsylvania have mixed views on whether this is a big deal or not, indicating a level of cynicism about many in the political class. — Ashley Lopez, NPR, 16 July 2026 While most sci-fi of the time was chipper and optimistic about our future, Blake’s 7 was a sci-fi show that explored themes of political dissidence, cynicism, and freedom fighting. — William Worrall, Space.com, 15 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for cynicism

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cynicism

Noun

In desperation, Shraddha took her to another hospital with lower fees.

— ABC News, ABC News, 13 Aug. 2026
Later in the film, after the separation of the father from the rest of the family, the color red comes to signify a sense of desperation.

— Matilda Hague, Variety, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of desperation

Noun

At the same time, 40% reported experiencing stress, 23% reported sadness, 22% anger and 22% loneliness.

— Naira Velumyan, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026
Still, there are strains of deeper sadness and discomfort here, largely in the passive-aggressive tension between Kim’s character and her onscreen mother (superbly played by a new recuit, veteran TV star Choi Myeonggil).

— Guy Lodge, Variety, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of sadness

Noun

For days, Nidhi observed her for signs of secret despair but could detect none.

— Madhuri Vijay, New Yorker, 16 Aug. 2026
So, what was once a pretty harsh ride that tended to skip sideways in bumpy corners, bludgeon yours and your passenger’s spine and kidneys, and remind you what terror and despair really are, is now gone.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of despair

Noun

But in recent months and years, a sense of hopelessness has increasingly gripped those still remaining on the island.

— ABC News, ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026
With the current political climate, Love sees the hopelessness in the world and took it upon herself to create room for people to be a part of a community that desires to curate a safe space.

— Zuri Primos July 27, Kansas City Star, 27 July 2026

Definition of hopelessness

Noun

And that pessimism creates a barrier that keeps us from reaching out more often.

— Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026
With all that taken into account, there is growing pessimism at the Barcelona end over their chances of signing Alvarez by the end of the window.

— Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 5 Aug. 2026

Definition of pessimism

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“Cynicism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cynicism. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of cynicism

noun

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