CYNICISM Synonyms: 76 Similar and Opposite Words

cynicism

noun

as in desperation

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

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Example Sentences

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 And underlying them all is an unexpectedly sincere exploration of what true love can or should feel like, pitched right on the knife’s edge between sentimentality and cynicism. —

Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 26 Mar. 2026 Michael McKenzie plays Patrick Salamon, narrator and brother of Marcelle, and McKenzie is a standout, capturing both cynicism and wit. —

Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 26 Mar. 2026 Released during Obama’s first term, this movie’s cynicism didn’t go over super-well; the film’s negative reviews were particularly hard on the idea that maybe Democrats and Republicans can both be bad. —

Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 20 Mar. 2026 The news of the Angels slowing down Grayson Rodriguez because of soreness was greeted with cynicism around baseball because Rodriguez has been through so many serious injuries. —

Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 20 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cynicism

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cynicism

Noun

Instead, Isaac infused him with vulnerability and desperation, turning a small supporting role into something memorable.

— Clayton Davis, Variety, 19 Apr. 2026
That leaves the Dolphins in a spot of desperation at two of the three skill positions on offense.

— Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 16 Apr. 2026