Disingenuous
hardNegative tonedis-in-JEN-yoo-us
adjective
Definition
Not candid or sincere; pretending to know less than one does
Memory hook
DIS-INGENUOUS: NOT genuine or frank — pretending to be innocent while actually being crafty.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“His claim of ignorance was disingenuous given his involvement.”
“Critics called the company's apology disingenuous.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His claim of ignorance was ______ given his involvement.”
Show answer
disingenuous
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Disingenuous is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "insincere" or "duplicitous" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "sincere".
Related GRE Words
fraudulent
Obtained, done by, or involving deception; dishonest
underhanded
Acting or done in a secret or dishonest way
fallacious
Based on a mistaken belief or unsound argument
mendacious
given to lying; dishonest
spurious
Not genuine; false or fake
chicanery
The use of trickery to achieve a political, financial, or legal purpose
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