how to pronounce cynical

/ˈsɪnɪkəl/

audio example by a male speaker

audio example by a female speaker

The above transcription of cynical is a detailed (narrow) transcription according to the rules of the International Phonetic Association. You can find a description of each symbol by clicking the phoneme buttons in the secction below.

cynical is pronounced in three syllables

press buttons with phonetic symbols to learn how to precisely pronounce each sound of cynical

1.

2.

3. example pitch curve for pronunciation of cynical

test your pronunciation of cynical

press the "test" button to check how closely you can replicate the pitch of a native speaker in your pronunciation of cynical

video examples of cynical pronunciation

An example use of cynical in a speech by a native speaker of american english:

“… should have been cynical and not had a …”

meanings of cynical

adjective:

Like the actions of a snarling dog, especially in reference to facial nerve paralysis.
Bitterly or jadedly distrustful or contemptuous; mocking.
Of or relating to the Cynics, a sect of Ancient Greek philosophers who believed virtue to be the only good and self-control to be the only means of achieving virtue.
Skeptical of the integrity, sincerity, or motives of others.
Showing contempt for accepted moral standards by one's actions.
Of or relating to the belief that human actions are motivated only or primarily by base desires or selfishness.