What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
machiavellist
Example
The politician was accused of being a machiavellist, using deceitful tactics to gain power. [machiavellist: noun]
Example
She employed machiavellian tactics to get ahead in her career, even if it meant stepping on others. [machiavellian: adjective]
cynic
Example
He was a cynic who believed that people only acted out of self-interest. [cynic: noun]
Example
She had a cynical view of love, thinking it was just a way for people to manipulate each other. [cynical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cynic is more commonly used than machiavellist in everyday language. Cynic is a more versatile word that can be used to describe a range of negative attitudes or behaviors, while machiavellist is less common and is typically associated with political or power-hungry individuals.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between machiavellist and cynic?
Both machiavellist and cynic are formal words that are not commonly used in everyday conversation. However, machiavellist may be more formal due to its association with political or power-related contexts.
