Top 56 Slang For Disingenuous – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to navigating conversations, it’s essential to be aware of the subtle nuances in language that can signal insincerity. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of slang terms that hint at someone being less than genuine. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills or simply stay in the know, this compilation is a must-read for anyone keen on deciphering the true intentions behind words.

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1. Fake

– For example, “She acted all friendly, but it was obvious she was fake.”

In a conversation about counterfeit products, someone might say, “That watch is fake, it’s not a genuine Rolex.”
A person might comment on a social media post, “This influencer’s lifestyle seems so fake, it’s all staged for the camera.”

2. Phony

– For instance, “He put on a phony smile and pretended to be happy.”

In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Be careful of those phony emails asking for your personal information.”
A person might comment on a politician’s speech, “His promises sound phony, I don’t believe he’ll follow through.”

3. Two-faced

– For example, “She’s always nice to your face but talks badly about you behind your back, she’s so two-faced.”

In a conversation about a mutual acquaintance, someone might warn, “Watch out for him, he’s two-faced and can’t be trusted.”
A person might comment on a coworker, “She acts all friendly in front of the boss, but she’s two-faced and stabs everyone in the back.”

4. Pretentious

– For instance, “He always uses big words to sound smart, but it’s just pretentious.”

In a discussion about art, someone might say, “That abstract painting is just pretentious, it doesn’t have any deeper meaning.”
A person might comment on a pretentious restaurant, “The menu is full of pretentious descriptions, but the food is mediocre.”

5. Deceptive

– For example, “The salesman used deceptive tactics to make the product seem better than it actually was.”

In a conversation about advertising, someone might say, “Those commercials are so deceptive, they make the product look perfect but it’s actually not.”
A person might comment on a deceptive practice, “Using Photoshop to alter a model’s appearance in an advertisement is deceptive and sets unrealistic standards.”

6. Insincere

This term refers to someone who is not genuine or sincere in their actions or words. It implies that the person is pretending to be something they are not.

For example, “She gave me an insincere compliment just to get on my good side.”
In a discussion about politicians, one might say, “Many voters see politicians as insincere and untrustworthy.”
A person might describe a friend as “insincere” if they often make promises they don’t keep.

7. Hypocritical

This term describes someone who says one thing but does the opposite. It implies that the person is not being honest or genuine in their actions.

For instance, “He criticized others for not recycling, but he was hypocritical because he never recycled himself.”
In a discussion about moral values, one might argue, “It’s hypocritical to preach about honesty while engaging in dishonest behavior.”
A person might describe a coworker as “hypocritical” if they advocate for teamwork but always take credit for others’ work.

8. False

This term refers to something that is not true or accurate. It implies that the information or statement is intentionally misleading or deceptive.

For example, “The news article contained false information about the company’s financial situation.”
In a debate, one might say, “His claim that he never received the email is false; I have evidence that he did.”
A person might describe a rumor as “false” if they have verified that it is not based on facts.

9. Dishonest

This term describes someone who is not honest or trustworthy. It implies that the person intentionally misleads or deceives others for personal gain.

For instance, “He was dishonest about his qualifications on his job application.”
In a discussion about relationships, one might say, “Trust is essential; a dishonest partner can cause significant harm.”
A person might describe a salesperson as “dishonest” if they use misleading tactics to sell products.

10. Fraudulent

This term refers to something that is deceptive or intended to deceive others for personal gain. It implies that the person or action is fraudulent or dishonest.

For example, “The company’s fraudulent practices led to the collapse of the stock market.”
In a discussion about online scams, one might warn, “Be careful of websites that look legitimate but are actually fraudulent.”
A person might describe a business as “fraudulent” if they consistently overcharge customers or provide false information.

11. Underhanded

This term refers to actions or behavior that is sneaky, dishonest, or unethical. It implies that someone is acting in a way that is not straightforward or honest.

For example, “He used underhanded tactics to win the competition.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “The politician’s underhanded tactics are damaging to democracy.”
A person might warn, “Be careful of that underhanded salesman, he’ll try to trick you into buying something you don’t need.”

12. Sly

This term describes someone who is clever, crafty, and often deceitful. It suggests that someone is skilled at manipulating situations or people for their own benefit.

For instance, “She has a sly way of getting what she wants.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “Watch out for those sly players who know all the right things to say.”
A person might comment, “The spy’s sly tactics helped them gather valuable information.”

13. Shady

This term refers to someone or something that is suspicious, untrustworthy, or disreputable. It implies that there is something questionable or deceitful about the person or situation.

For example, “That shady character is always involved in illegal activities.”
In a discussion about business practices, someone might say, “The company’s shady dealings have led to multiple lawsuits.”
A person might warn, “Don’t trust that shady website, it’s known for scamming people.”

14. Untrustworthy

This term describes someone or something that cannot be relied upon or trusted. It suggests that the person or thing is not honest, dependable, or worthy of confidence.

For instance, “She is known for being untrustworthy, so be careful what you share with her.”
In a conversation about friendships, someone might say, “I had to end the friendship because they were untrustworthy.”
A person might advise, “Don’t lend money to that untrustworthy individual, they never pay it back.”

15. Sneaky

This term describes someone who is secretive, sly, or untrustworthy. It suggests that the person is behaving in a way that is not straightforward or honest.

For example, “He’s a sneaky little devil, always finding a way to get what he wants.”
In a discussion about pranks, someone might say, “That was a sneaky move, but it was hilarious.”
A person might comment, “Watch out for sneaky sales tactics, they’ll try to pressure you into buying something you don’t need.”

16. Conniving

This term refers to someone who is cunning, deceitful, and willing to manipulate others for personal gain.

For example, “She’s a conniving politician who will do whatever it takes to win the election.”
In a discussion about office politics, someone might say, “Watch out for the conniving coworker who is always trying to sabotage others.”
A character in a TV show might be described as “conniving” if they are constantly plotting and scheming behind the scenes.

17. Scheming

This term describes someone who is constantly making secret plans or devising schemes to achieve their own goals, often at the expense of others.

For instance, “She’s always scheming to get ahead in her career, no matter who she has to step on.”
In a movie about heists, a character might be described as “a brilliant and scheming mastermind.”
A person might say, “I can’t trust him because he’s always scheming and looking for ways to manipulate people.”

18. Crafty

This term refers to someone who is clever, resourceful, and skilled in using deception or trickery to achieve their goals.

For example, “He’s a crafty businessman who always finds a way to come out on top.”
In a discussion about survival skills, someone might say, “Being crafty and resourceful can help you overcome challenges in the wilderness.”
A character in a book might be described as “crafty” if they are constantly outsmarting their opponents.

19. Manipulative

This term describes someone who is skilled at influencing or controlling others through deceptive or dishonest tactics.

For instance, “He’s a manipulative person who knows how to play with people’s emotions to get what he wants.”
In a discussion about toxic relationships, someone might say, “A manipulative partner will try to control every aspect of your life.”
A person might warn others, “Be careful of her, she’s very manipulative and will try to twist your words to her advantage.”

20. Duplicious

This term refers to someone who is deceitful or hypocritical, often presenting a different persona or attitude to different people.

For example, “She’s a duplicious friend who talks badly about you behind your back.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “Politicians are known for their duplicious nature, saying one thing to the public and doing another behind closed doors.”
A character in a TV show might be described as “duplicious” if they are constantly lying and manipulating others for their own gain.

21. Cunning

Cunning refers to being clever and sly in a way that is deceitful or manipulative.

For example, a person might say, “He used his cunning to trick his way into the job.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might comment, “Politicians often rely on cunning tactics to gain an advantage.”
A character in a mystery novel might be described as “a cunning mastermind who always stays one step ahead.”

22. Disingenuous

Disingenuous refers to someone who is not honest or sincere in their actions or words. They may pretend to be genuine, but they have ulterior motives.

For instance, a person might say, “Her apology seemed disingenuous, as if she didn’t really mean it.”
In a debate, someone might accuse their opponent of being disingenuous, saying, “You’re just saying that to win the argument.”
A character in a movie might be described as “a disingenuous villain who manipulates others for personal gain.”

23. Machiavellian

Machiavellian refers to someone who is cunning, deceitful, and willing to use any means necessary to achieve their goals. The term is derived from Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian political philosopher known for his book “The Prince.”

For example, a person might say, “He has a Machiavellian approach to business, always looking for ways to gain an advantage.”
In a discussion about power dynamics, someone might comment, “Machiavellian leaders often prioritize their own interests over the well-being of others.”
A character in a TV show might be described as “a Machiavellian mastermind who pulls the strings behind the scenes.”

24. Smooth-talking

Smooth-talking refers to someone who is persuasive and charismatic in their speech, but their intentions may not be genuine or trustworthy.

For instance, a person might say, “He used his smooth-talking skills to convince others to do his bidding.”
In a discussion about sales techniques, someone might comment, “Smooth-talking can be an effective way to close a deal, but it can also come across as disingenuous.”
A character in a movie might be described as “a smooth-talking con artist who swindles people out of their money.”

25. Double-dealing

Double-dealing refers to someone who is deceitful and dishonest, often pretending to be loyal or trustworthy while secretly working against others.

For example, a person might say, “He was caught double-dealing, pretending to be a friend while secretly betraying us.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might comment, “Double-dealing is unfortunately common in the world of politics, where alliances can shift overnight.”
A character in a book might be described as “a double-dealing spy who plays both sides for their own gain.”

26. Slick

This term refers to someone who is clever and smooth in their speech and actions, often using charm to deceive or manipulate others. “Slick” can also describe someone who is crafty or sly in their behavior.

For example, a character in a movie might be described as a “slick con artist.”
In a political context, a person might be called “slick” if they are skilled at avoiding direct answers or manipulating the truth.
Someone might say, “Watch out for that slick salesman, he’ll try to sell you anything.”

27. Snide

When someone is being snide, they are making sarcastic or derogatory remarks in a sneering or mocking manner. This term is often used to describe someone who is being insincere or disingenuous in their comments or behavior.

For instance, if someone makes a snide remark about another person’s appearance, they are making a mean-spirited and insincere comment.
In a heated argument, one person might say to the other, “Stop being so snide and just be honest.”
A person might describe a passive-aggressive coworker as “always making snide comments.”

28. Devious

When someone is devious, they are being dishonest or deceitful in order to achieve their goals. This term describes someone who is clever and crafty in their actions, often manipulating situations or people to their advantage.

For example, a character in a mystery novel might be described as “devious” if they are constantly plotting and scheming.
In a discussion about politics, someone might accuse a politician of being “devious” in their tactics.
A person might say, “I don’t trust him, he’s always coming up with devious plans.”

29. Shifty

When someone is described as shifty, it means they are acting in a suspicious or untrustworthy manner. This term is often used to describe someone who is evasive or avoids direct answers, giving the impression that they are hiding something.

For instance, if someone is constantly looking around and avoiding eye contact, they might be seen as shifty.
In a conversation, one person might say to another, “I don’t trust him, he seems shifty.”
A person might describe a dishonest salesperson as “shifty” if they are trying to deceive customers.

30. Dissembling

Dissembling refers to the act of concealing or disguising one’s true motives, thoughts, or feelings. It involves presenting a false appearance or pretending to be someone or something that one is not. Dissembling is often used to deceive or mislead others.

For example, a person might accuse someone of dissembling if they are constantly changing their story or giving contradictory information.
In a courtroom drama, a lawyer might accuse a witness of dissembling in order to cast doubt on their credibility.
A person might say, “I can see right through his dissembling, he’s not being honest.”

31. Treacherous

This term is used to describe someone who is untrustworthy or likely to betray others. It implies a sense of danger or betrayal.

For example, “Watch out for him, he’s treacherous and will stab you in the back.”
In a political context, one might say, “The treacherous politician lied to the public to further their own agenda.”
A person discussing a cheating partner might say, “I can’t believe he was so treacherous to deceive me like that.”

32. Unscrupulous

This word refers to someone who lacks moral principles or is willing to do anything, regardless of ethics or legality, to achieve their goals.

For instance, “The unscrupulous businessman cheated his customers to make more money.”
In a discussion about corrupt politicians, one might say, “They are unscrupulous individuals who prioritize personal gain over public welfare.”
A person describing a dishonest lawyer might say, “Their unscrupulous tactics have earned them a bad reputation.”

33. False-hearted

This term describes someone who is insincere or dishonest. It suggests that the person’s actions or words do not align with their true feelings or intentions.

For example, “She acted friendly, but she was false-hearted and only wanted something from me.”
In a discussion about a manipulative friend, one might say, “Beware of their false-hearted nature; they will use you for their own benefit.”
A person describing a liar might say, “His false-hearted statements were exposed when the truth came out.”

34. Guileful

This word refers to someone who is crafty, sly, or skilled in deception. It implies a cleverness in manipulating others.

For instance, “The guileful salesman convinced me to buy a product I didn’t need.”
In a discussion about a con artist, one might say, “Their guileful tactics fooled many unsuspecting victims.”
A person describing a master manipulator might say, “He is guileful in his ability to twist people’s words and emotions.”

35. Sly as a fox

This phrase describes someone who is clever and cunning in their actions, often with a mischievous or deceitful intent. It compares the person to the sly and cunning nature of a fox.

For example, “He’s as sly as a fox, always finding a way to get what he wants.”
In a discussion about a clever thief, one might say, “They are as sly as a fox, able to outsmart security systems.”
A person describing a manipulative individual might say, “Beware of their sly as a fox nature; they will charm you before deceiving you.”

36. Artful

This term describes someone who is clever and skillful in their deceitful behavior. It implies that they are able to manipulate others through their cunning tactics.

For example, a person might say, “She is quite artful in the way she twists the truth to get what she wants.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might comment, “Politicians often employ artful tactics to win over voters.”
A character in a novel might be described as, “The artful antagonist who constantly schemes and deceives the protagonist.”

37. Foxy

This slang term refers to someone who is cunning and clever in their deceptive actions. It implies that they are able to outsmart others through their sly behavior.

For instance, a person might say, “Watch out for him, he’s foxy and can trick you easily.”
In a conversation about con artists, someone might comment, “Con artists are known for their foxy tactics to manipulate their victims.”
A character in a movie might be described as, “The foxy villain who always manages to stay one step ahead of the protagonist.”

38. Misleading

This term describes something that is designed to lead others into believing something that is not true. It implies that the information or appearance is intentionally crafted to mislead or deceive.

For example, a person might say, “The advertisement was misleading, as the product did not live up to its claims.”
In a discussion about false news, someone might comment, “Misleading headlines can easily spread misinformation.”
A reviewer might warn others by saying, “Be cautious of the misleading packaging that makes the product seem better than it actually is.”

39. Illusive

This slang term refers to someone or something that is difficult to catch, understand, or pin down. It implies that the person or thing is intentionally evasive or hard to grasp.

For instance, a person might say, “The truth about his past remains illusive, as he constantly changes his story.”
In a conversation about an elusive criminal, someone might comment, “The illusive thief always manages to escape the authorities.”
A character in a mystery novel might be described as, “The illusive suspect who leaves behind little evidence and keeps the detectives guessing.”

40. Beguiling

This term describes someone or something that is enticing, captivating, or alluring, but with a deceptive or misleading intent. It implies that the person or thing is able to charm or seduce others through their manipulative behavior.

For example, a person might say, “She has a beguiling smile that can make anyone trust her.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might comment, “Beguiling tactics are often used to gain the trust of unsuspecting victims.”
A character in a play might be described as, “The beguiling villain who uses their charm to manipulate others for their own gain.”

41. Illusory

Something that is illusory is deceptive or misleading. It gives a false impression or creates a false belief.

For example, a magician might create an illusory effect that makes something appear to disappear.
In a political campaign, a candidate might make illusory promises to gain support.
A salesperson might use illusory tactics to make a product seem more appealing than it actually is.

42. Perfidious

Perfidious means betraying someone’s trust or confidence. It refers to someone who is deceitful or untrustworthy.

For instance, a friend who spreads rumors about you behind your back is being perfidious.
In a relationship, a partner who cheats on you is displaying perfidious behavior.
A business partner who steals from the company is acting in a perfidious manner.

43. Disloyal

Being disloyal means not being faithful or true to someone or something. It implies a lack of commitment or allegiance.

For example, a soldier who switches sides in a war is considered disloyal.
In a friendship, someone who constantly betrays your trust is being disloyal.
An employee who leaks confidential information about their company is acting in a disloyal manner.

44. Unfaithful

Someone who is unfaithful is not loyal or true to their commitments or obligations. It can refer to a person who cheats on their partner or breaks promises.

For instance, a spouse who has an affair is being unfaithful.
In a business partnership, someone who fails to fulfill their responsibilities is acting unfaithfully.
A student who copies someone else’s work is being unfaithful to the principles of academic integrity.

45. Treasonous

Treasonous refers to actions or behavior that betray one’s country, organization, or cause. It implies disloyalty and a violation of trust.

For example, someone who spies for a foreign government is committing treasonous acts.
In a rebellion or revolution, those who switch sides and fight against their former allies are considered treasonous.
A politician who sells classified information to the highest bidder is engaging in treasonous behavior.

46. Untruthful

This term refers to someone who is not being honest or is deliberately giving false information.

For example, if someone asks, “Did you cheat on the test?” and you reply, “No, I didn’t,” but you actually did, you would be considered untruthful.
A person might say, “I can’t trust him because he’s always untruthful.”
In a court case, a witness might be accused of being untruthful if their testimony contradicts the evidence.

47. Faux

This term is borrowed from French and is used to describe something that is not genuine or real.

For instance, if someone is wearing a faux fur coat, it means the coat is made of synthetic materials designed to resemble real fur.
A person might say, “Her smile seems faux. I don’t think she’s sincere.”
In the art world, a faux painting refers to a technique used to create the illusion of a different material or texture.

48. Counterfeit

This term is often used to describe something that is made to look like the real thing but is actually an imitation.

For example, counterfeit money refers to fake currency that is designed to resemble real money and deceive people into accepting it as genuine.
A person might say, “Be careful when buying designer handbags online. There are a lot of counterfeit products out there.”
In the world of collectibles, a counterfeit item can significantly decrease its value.

49. Feigned

This term describes something that is not genuine or sincere, but rather an act or pretense.

For instance, if someone feigns surprise when they already knew about something, it means they are pretending to be surprised.
A person might say, “I can tell she’s feigning interest. She’s not really listening to what I’m saying.”
In a play or movie, actors often feign emotions or actions to portray their characters.

50. Fake AF

This term is an abbreviation for “fake as f***” and is used to emphasize that something or someone is extremely disingenuous or not genuine.

For example, if someone is pretending to be your friend but is actually talking behind your back, you might say, “They’re fake AF.”
A person might comment on social media, “That influencer’s perfect life is so fake AF.”
In a reality TV show, a contestant might be accused of being fake AF if they are putting on a false persona for the cameras.

51. Deceitful

This term describes someone who is dishonest and cannot be trusted. It refers to a person’s tendency to deceive or mislead others.

For example, “He is deceitful and always lies about his accomplishments.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “Politicians are often seen as deceitful.”
A person warning others might say, “Be careful of that deceitful salesman, he will try to trick you into buying something you don’t need.”

52. Crooked

This word is used to describe someone who is corrupt or dishonest. It implies a lack of integrity or moral principles.

For instance, “The crooked politician was involved in multiple scandals.”
In a conversation about business ethics, someone might say, “We need to avoid working with crooked individuals.”
A person discussing a fraudulent scheme might say, “The company’s CEO was involved in a crooked operation.”

53. Duplicitous

This term describes someone who is deceitful or deceptive, often pretending to be one way while acting in a contradictory manner. It implies a lack of sincerity or honesty.

For example, “She is known for her duplicitous behavior, saying one thing but doing another.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “I can’t trust him, he’s too duplicitous.”
A person warning others might say, “Beware of her, she has a duplicitous nature and can’t be trusted.”

54. Slimy

This slang term is used to describe someone who is untrustworthy or deceitful. It implies a sense of disgust or repulsion towards the person’s behavior.

For instance, “He is a slimy character, always trying to manipulate others.”
In a conversation about business practices, someone might say, “That company engages in slimy tactics to gain an advantage.”
A person warning others might say, “Stay away from him, he’s slimy and will take advantage of you.”

55. Swindling

This word refers to the act of cheating or deceiving others, usually for personal gain. It implies dishonesty and a lack of integrity.

For example, “He was arrested for swindling investors out of millions of dollars.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might say, “Beware of online swindling schemes.”
A person warning others might say, “Don’t trust him, he’s known for swindling people out of their money.”

56. Snake

A “snake” is someone who is sly, cunning, and untrustworthy. It refers to a person who behaves in a disingenuous or deceitful manner.

For example, “Watch out for that guy, he’s a real snake.”
In a discussion about dishonest people, someone might say, “I can’t stand snakes who pretend to be your friend.”
A person reflecting on a past experience might say, “I was fooled by a snake once, but I won’t let it happen again.”