How to Pronounce Cynical

To pronounce "cynical", say CYNIC-al — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈsɪnɪkəl/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

cynical

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Accent

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2

Syllables

7

Letters

/ˈsɪnɪkəl/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “cynical”

"cynical" has 2 syllables: cynic-al. It rhymes with pinnacle and clinical, if that helps it stick.

What does cynical mean?

adjective

  1. Of or relating to the belief that human actions are motivated only or primarily by base desires or selfishness.
  2. Skeptical of the integrity, sincerity, or motives of others.

Words that rhyme with cynical

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

pinnacleclinicalrabbinicalpreclinical

Related words

distrustfulmisanthropicalmisanthropiccyniccallousinsensitivedisillusionedironic

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "cynical"?▾

"Cynical" has 2 syllables: cynic · al.

What is the IPA transcription of "cynical"?▾

The IPA transcription of "cynical" is /ˈsɪnɪkəl/.

What does "cynical" mean?▾

Cynical: Of or relating to the belief that human actions are motivated only or primarily by base desires or selfishness.

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