What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disillusioned
Example
After working for the company for years, she became disillusioned with the management's lack of concern for employee well-being. [disillusioned: adjective]
Example
He was disillusioned by the political system after seeing how corrupt it was. [disillusioned: verb]
cynical
Example
She had a cynical view of love and relationships, believing that they were all doomed to fail. [cynical: adjective]
Example
He cynically dismissed the idea that anyone would do something out of the goodness of their heart. [cynically: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cynical is more commonly used than disillusioned in everyday language. Cynical is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while disillusioned is less common and may be more specific to certain situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disillusioned and cynical?
Both disillusioned and cynical can be used in formal and informal contexts, but disillusioned may be slightly more formal due to its less frequent use in everyday language.