cynicism

The belief that people act for their own benefit rather than from kindness or honesty.

• His cynicism makes it hard to trust anyone.
• The scandal increased cynicism about politicians.
• She challenged my cynicism by helping without expecting anything.

How to use it: cynicism about something (The scandal increased public cynicism about politics.); cynicism toward someone/something (Her cynicism toward authority grew over time.)

Similar words: distrust, skepticism

Opposites: trust, idealism

Common phrases: deep cynicism, public cynicism, cynicism about something, cynicism about motives

A remark or action that shows you expect the worst and have little respect for people.

• He answered with a cruel cynicism.
• Her cynicisms made every kind gesture sound selfish.
• The speech contained several cynicisms about public service.

Similar words: sneer, cynical remark

Common phrases: a bitter cynicism, utter a cynicism

An ancient Greek way of thinking that valued a simple life over wealth and social rules.

• Cynicism encouraged a simple life.
• The students compared Cynicism with other Greek philosophies.
• Diogenes is closely associated with Cynicism.

Common phrases: ancient cynicism, Greek cynicism