zynisch
cynical
Disregarding or mocking the values and ideals of others in a scornful and hurtful way.
EXAMPLE
Mit einer zynischen Bemerkung tat er die Bemühungen seiner Kollegen ab.
With a cynical remark, he dismissed his colleagues' efforts.
zynisch
cynical
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Meanings
Usage tips
Typical collocations
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).
EXAMPLE
Er antwortete mit einem zynischen Lächeln auf die ernst gemeinte Frage.
He responded to the sincere question with a cynical smile.
Use as an adverb
'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.
EXAMPLE
„Das wird sicher ein großer Erfolg“, sagte er zynisch.
'That will surely be a great success,' he said cynically.
Strong negative meaning
Be careful when using it: 'zynisch' (cynical) is a strongly negative word. It describes not just disbelief, but a hurtful and disrespectful attitude.
EXAMPLE
Seine zynische Art macht es schwer, mit ihm zusammenzuarbeiten.
His cynical manner makes it difficult to work with him.
Compare with
zynisch vs ironisch
ironic
Ironisch describes a remark in which the literal wording and the intended meaning differ, often with a humorous or critical effect. Zynisch, by contrast, is mocking and hurtful and shows contempt for values or ideals. Choose ironisch for a reversal of meaning and zynisch for an insensitive attitude.
zynisch
Über die Spendenaktion sagte er zynisch: „Damit können sich die Reichen wieder gut fühlen.“
He said cynically of the fundraising campaign, “That way, the rich can feel good about themselves again.”
ironisch
Als der Bus schon wieder zu spät kam, sagte Lea ironisch: „Das klappt heute ja wunderbar.“
When the bus was late yet again, Lea said ironically, “Everything is working wonderfully today.”
In real life
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