What is cynical in English?
cynical, misanthropic, pessimistic mean deeply distrustful. cynical implies having a sneering disbelief in sincerity or integrity. cynical about politicians’ motives misanthropic suggests a rooted distrust and dislike of human beings and their society.
What does cynical mean in Animal Farm?
cynical. believing the worst of human nature and motives. He seldom talked, and when he did, it was usually to make some cynical remark–for instance, he would say that God had given him a tail to keep the flies off, but that he would sooner have had no tail and no flies. prosperity. the condition of having good …
Is it cynical or cynical?
Definition of cynical distrusting or disparaging the motives of others; like or characteristic of a cynic. showing contempt for accepted standards of honesty or morality by one’s actions, especially by actions that exploit the scruples of others. bitterly or sneeringly distrustful, contemptuous, or pessimistic.
Where does the word cynical come from?
Word History: The Greek word kunikos, from which cynic comes, was originally an adjective meaning “doglike,” from kuōn, “dog.” The use of the word kunikos to designate the Cynic philosophers may make reference to the Kunosarges, an athletic training area where Antisthenes, a pupil of Socrates, is said to have taught …
Is Cynicality a word?
Noun. The quality of being cynical.
Who is Benjamin the donkey and what does he symbolize?
Benjamin is an old and pessimistic donkey. No one on the farm knows exactly how old he is but it is hinted that he has been around for a very long time. He is never enthusiastic when things go well for the animals; likewise, he is never surprised or upset when things go wrong. He often gives vague answers.
How do you use cynical?
Cynical sentence example
- He was cynical about politicians’ promises on taxes.
- I’m cynical enough to believe this is deliberate.
- On the whole, his moral attitude is cynical, and he is inclined to regard self-interest as the best criterion.
- You don’t have a cynical bone in your body.
- They were cynical about politics.
Is cynic Greek or Latin?
Etymology. First used in English around 1540–50. From Latin Cynicus (cynic philosopher), from Ancient Greek Κυνικός (Kunikós, literally “doglike, currish”), from κύων (kúōn, “dog”) + -ικός (-ikós); see Proto-Indo-European *ḱwṓ.
How do you become Apathic?
You need to be apathetic about what other people think of you, apathetic about comparing yourself to others, apathetic about a whole range of things that can only produce worry, not happiness. As I saw someone put very wisely on Tumblr: “Start ignoring people who threaten your joy. Literally, ignore them.
Why is Benjamin from Animal Farm so cynical?
Despite his age, he is never given the option of retirement (none of the animals are). Only the pigs’ betrayal of his best friend, Boxer, spurs him into (failed) action, after which Benjamin becomes even more cynical than ever.
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What is the origin of the word cynical?
In ancient Greece, the followers of the philosopher Antisthenes were referred to as kynikos (“doglike”); when cynical was first used in English, it often was in reference to this group of philosophers.
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