cynical
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cynical
Disregarding or mocking the values and ideals of others in a scornful and hurtful way.
Mit einer zynischen Bemerkung tat er die Bemühungen seiner Kollegen ab.
With a cynical remark, he dismissed his colleagues' efforts.
The adjective 'zynisch' (cynical) often describes statements or nonverbal reactions. Typical combinations are 'eine zynische Bemerkung' (a cynical remark), 'ein zynischer Kommentar' (a cynical comment), or 'ein zynisches Lächeln' (a cynical smile).
Er antwortete mit einem zynischen Lächeln auf die ernst gemeinte Frage.
He responded to the sincere question with a cynical smile.
'Zynisch' (cynical/cynically) can also be used as an adverb to describe the manner of an action. It then usually stands directly with the verb.
„Das wird sicher ein großer Erfolg“, sagte er zynisch.
'That will surely be a great success,' he said cynically.
Be careful when using it: 'zynisch' (cynical) is a strongly negative word. It describes not just disbelief, but a hurtful and disrespectful attitude.
Seine zynische Art macht es schwer, mit ihm zusammenzuarbeiten.
His cynical manner makes it difficult to work with him.
ironic
'ironisch' and 'zynisch' can both sound mocking and may not be meant completely literally. The important difference is in the tone. 'ironisch' can be humorous or mildly critical; often, you deliberately say the opposite of what you mean. 'zynisch' is harsher: it shows that someone does not take other people's values, feelings, or ideals seriously and hurts or ridicules them. They can be confused because both appear in critical remarks. If the remark is more funny or indirect, 'ironisch' fits. If it sounds cold, hurtful, or contemptuous of people, 'zynisch' fits.
Sein zynischer Kommentar über die Kranken wirkte auf alle sehr verletzend.
His cynical comment about the sick people felt very hurtful to everyone.
Nach zwei Stunden Wartezeit sagte sie ironisch: „Das ging ja schnell.“
After waiting for two hours, she said ironically, "Well, that was quick."