Top 41 Slang For Duplicitous – Meaning & Usage

If you’ve ever encountered someone who’s not quite what they seem, then you’re familiar with the concept of being duplicitous. But how do you describe this behavior in a more casual and trendy way? Look no further! Our team has compiled a list of the top slang terms that capture the essence of duplicity in a fun and relatable manner. Get ready to level up your vocabulary and stay ahead of the curve with these hip expressions!

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1. Two-faced

This term is used to describe someone who presents one side of their personality or intentions to others, while hiding their true thoughts or motives. It implies that the person is not genuine or trustworthy.

For example, “I thought she was my friend, but she turned out to be two-faced.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “Beware of people who are two-faced, they can easily manipulate you.”
A person describing a politician might say, “He’s known for being two-faced, saying one thing in public and doing the opposite behind closed doors.”

2. Snake in the grass

This phrase is used to describe a person who appears harmless or innocent on the surface, but is actually untrustworthy or deceptive. It implies that the person is hiding their true intentions or character.

For instance, “Watch out for him, he’s a snake in the grass.”
In a conversation about workplace dynamics, someone might say, “There’s always a snake in the grass, you have to be careful who you trust.”
A person describing a manipulative friend might say, “She seemed nice at first, but she turned out to be a snake in the grass.”

3. Backstabber

This term is used to describe a person who pretends to be a friend or ally, but then turns against or betrays the person who trusted them. It implies that the person is unfaithful or disloyal.

For example, “I can’t believe she spread those rumors about me, she’s such a backstabber.”
In a discussion about friendship, someone might say, “You have to be careful who you confide in, there are a lot of backstabbers out there.”
A person describing a coworker’s actions might say, “He stole my ideas and presented them as his own, he’s a total backstabber.”

4. Double-dealer

This term is used to describe a person who engages in deceitful or dishonest behavior, often by pretending to be loyal or trustworthy while secretly working against others. It implies that the person is not to be trusted.

For instance, “He promised to help me, but he’s actually working for our competitors, he’s a double-dealer.”
In a conversation about business partnerships, someone might say, “You have to be cautious, there are a lot of double-dealers in the industry.”
A person describing a politician’s actions might say, “He campaigned on transparency, but he’s been a double-dealer the whole time.”

5. Deceptive

This term is used to describe something or someone that is intended to mislead or give a false impression. It implies that the person or thing is not what it appears to be.

For example, “His smile was deceptive, he was actually planning something malicious.”
In a discussion about advertising, someone might say, “Some commercials can be deceptive, making products seem better than they actually are.”
A person describing a magic trick might say, “The magician used deceptive techniques to make it seem like the coin disappeared.”

6. Fraudulent

Fraudulent refers to something that is dishonest or deceitful, typically with the intention to deceive or trick someone.

For example, a person might say, “That company’s claim of a guaranteed 100% return on investment is clearly fraudulent.”
In a discussion about scams, someone might warn, “Be careful of fraudulent emails asking for your personal information.”
A news article might describe a fraudulent scheme as, “The company was accused of running a fraudulent investment scheme that defrauded thousands of people.”

7. Cunning

Cunning describes someone who is clever and deceitful, often in a way that is sneaky or manipulative.

For instance, a character in a movie might be described as “a cunning mastermind who always stays one step ahead of the authorities.”
In a political context, someone might say, “The politician used cunning tactics to gain support from unsuspecting voters.”
A person discussing a manipulative friend might explain, “She’s cunning and knows how to manipulate people to get what she wants.”

8. Sneaky

Sneaky refers to behavior that is sly or underhanded, often done in a way that is intended to go unnoticed or without being caught.

For example, a person might say, “He took a sneaky peek at her phone when she wasn’t looking.”
In a game of hide-and-seek, someone might comment, “I saw you taking a sneaky shortcut to the hiding spot.”
A parent might scold their child, saying, “No sneaky behavior, young lady. I expect you to be honest and upfront.”

9. Shady

Shady describes something or someone that is questionable, suspicious, or untrustworthy.

For instance, a person might say, “I don’t trust that shady character hanging around the park.”
In a discussion about a business, someone might comment, “Their shady practices make me hesitant to do business with them.”
A friend warning another might say, “Be careful of that shady website. It looks like a scam.”

10. Conniving

Conniving refers to someone who is crafty and manipulative, often in a way that involves making secret plans or schemes to achieve their own goals.

For example, a person might say, “She’s conniving and always seems to have a hidden agenda.”
In a TV show, a character might be described as “the conniving villain who is always plotting against the main protagonist.”
A coworker might complain about a conniving colleague, saying, “He’s always scheming to get ahead and doesn’t care who he steps on.”

11. Scheming

This term refers to someone who is deceitful or cunning in their actions or plans. It implies that the person is constantly plotting or scheming to achieve their own goals, often at the expense of others.

For example, “He is always scheming to get ahead in his career.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “Politicians are often accused of being scheming and untrustworthy.”
A character in a novel might be described as “a scheming villain who stops at nothing to achieve their evil plans.”

12. Disingenuous

This word describes someone who is not genuine or sincere in their words or actions. It implies that the person is pretending to be something they are not, often for personal gain or to deceive others.

For instance, “She gave a disingenuous apology, pretending to be sorry but not really meaning it.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “It’s hard to trust someone who is always disingenuous.”
A character in a movie might be described as “a disingenuous con artist who tricks people with their charming facade.”

13. Underhanded

This term refers to someone who is deceitful or dishonest in a secretive or sneaky way. It implies that the person is engaging in shady or unethical behavior behind others’ backs, often to gain an advantage.

For example, “He used underhanded tactics to win the competition.”
In a discussion about business practices, someone might say, “Some companies resort to underhanded methods to gain a competitive edge.”
A character in a TV show might be described as “an underhanded manipulator who always finds a way to get what they want.”

14. Machiavellian

This term refers to someone who is cunning, manipulative, and willing to use any means necessary to achieve their goals. It is derived from Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian Renaissance political philosopher known for his book “The Prince,” which explores the use of deceit and manipulation in politics.

For instance, “He has a Machiavellian mindset, always plotting and manipulating others for his own benefit.”
In a conversation about power dynamics, someone might say, “Machiavellian leaders often prioritize their own interests over the well-being of their followers.”
A character in a play might be described as “a Machiavellian antagonist who orchestrates a series of manipulative schemes.”

15. Crafty

This word describes someone who is clever, resourceful, and skilled at deceiving others. It implies that the person is able to manipulate situations or people to their advantage through their intelligence and cunningness.

For example, “She came up with a crafty plan to outsmart her opponents.”
In a discussion about strategy, someone might say, “A crafty player knows how to anticipate their opponent’s moves.”
A character in a novel might be described as “a crafty detective who always manages to solve the most difficult cases through their cleverness.”

16. Sly

Sly is a term used to describe someone who is clever, crafty, and deceitful in a way that is not easily detected. It implies a sense of sneakiness or slyness in their actions.

For example, “He made a sly remark that went unnoticed by most people.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “Politicians often use sly tactics to gain support.”
A character in a mystery novel might be described as, “The sly detective was always one step ahead of everyone else.”

17. Treacherous

Treacherous refers to someone who is untrustworthy, disloyal, and likely to betray others. It implies a sense of danger or risk in dealing with such a person.

For instance, “He proved to be treacherous by leaking confidential information.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “Beware of treacherous partners who might cheat on you.”
A person describing a dangerous situation might say, “The treacherous path through the mountains required extreme caution.”

18. Unscrupulous

Unscrupulous describes someone who is willing to act dishonestly or immorally in order to achieve their goals. It suggests a lack of integrity or ethical behavior.

For example, “He is known for his unscrupulous business practices.”
In a discussion about corruption, someone might say, “Unscrupulous politicians often prioritize personal gain over public welfare.”
A person warning others about scams might say, “Be cautious of unscrupulous individuals trying to deceive you.”

19. Deceitful

Deceitful refers to someone who is intentionally misleading or dishonest. It implies a deliberate attempt to deceive or trick others.

For instance, “She was caught in a deceitful act of stealing.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “Deceitful partners often hide their true intentions.”
A character in a thriller movie might be described as, “The deceitful spy was skilled at manipulating others.”

20. Guileful

Guileful describes someone who is skilled at using deception or cunning to achieve their goals. It implies a cleverness and resourcefulness in their actions.

For example, “The guileful magician amazed the audience with his tricks.”
In a discussion about strategy, someone might say, “A guileful approach can sometimes be more effective than brute force.”
A person describing a master manipulator might say, “He was a guileful con artist who could convince anyone of anything.”

21. Insidious

Insidious refers to something or someone that is treacherous or deceitful, often in a subtle or gradual way. It describes actions or intentions that are intended to harm or deceive without being easily noticed or recognized.

For example, “The insidious plot to overthrow the government was slowly unfolding behind the scenes.”
In a discussion about manipulative tactics, someone might say, “Beware of the insidious nature of gaslighting.”
A person might describe a toxic relationship as, “Her insidious behavior eroded my trust over time.”

22. Perfidious

Perfidious describes someone who is untrustworthy or disloyal, often by betraying the trust or confidence of others. It implies a deliberate act of deceit or betrayal.

For instance, “The perfidious friend turned out to be a spy for the enemy.”
In a conversation about infidelity, someone might say, “She discovered her partner’s perfidious affair.”
A person might describe a backstabbing colleague as, “His perfidious actions cost me a promotion.”

23. Janus-faced

Janus-faced refers to someone who is two-faced or deceitful, displaying different sides or personalities to different people or in different situations. It alludes to the Roman god Janus, who was depicted with two faces looking in opposite directions.

For example, “She showed her janus-faced nature by being sweet to your face but spreading rumors behind your back.”
In a discussion about politicians, someone might say, “Many politicians are known for their janus-faced behavior.”
A person might describe a manipulative ex-partner as, “He had a janus-faced personality, pretending to be caring but ultimately causing harm.”

24. Furtive

Furtive describes actions or behavior that is secretive, sly, or stealthy, often indicating an intention to avoid being noticed or caught. It implies a sense of guilt or wrongdoing.

For instance, “He cast a furtive glance around the room before slipping the stolen item into his pocket.”
In a conversation about suspicious activity, someone might say, “The furtive behavior of the suspect caught the attention of the police.”
A person might describe a covert operation as, “The spies moved about with furtive precision, ensuring they were not discovered.”

25. Machinating

Machinating refers to the act of plotting or scheming, often with a hidden agenda or malicious intent. It implies a deliberate and calculated effort to deceive or manipulate others.

For example, “The corrupt politician was constantly machinating to maintain their power.”
In a discussion about strategic planning, someone might say, “We need to spend more time machinating our next move.”
A person might describe a mastermind criminal as, “He was always machinating elaborate schemes to outsmart the authorities.”

26. Double-crosser

A double-crosser is someone who deceives or betrays another person, often by pretending to be on their side or working with them, only to turn against them in the end.

For example, in a spy movie, a character might be revealed as a double-crosser who was secretly working for the enemy.
In a heist story, one member of the team might be a double-crosser who plans to steal all the loot for themselves.
A person discussing trust issues might say, “Once bitten, twice shy. I won’t be fooled by a double-crosser again.”

27. Devious

Devious describes someone who is cunning, crafty, and often uses underhanded or deceitful methods to achieve their goals.

For instance, a devious person might manipulate others into doing their bidding without them realizing it.
In a political setting, a devious politician might make promises they have no intention of keeping in order to gain votes.
A person might warn their friend about a devious coworker, saying, “Watch out for them. They’re known for their devious tactics.”

28. Untrustworthy

Untrustworthy refers to someone who cannot be relied upon or trusted to act honestly or keep their word.

For example, if someone has a history of breaking promises or lying, they would be considered untrustworthy.
In a business setting, an untrustworthy employee might leak confidential information to competitors.
A person might warn others about an untrustworthy mechanic, saying, “Don’t take your car to them. They’re known for their untrustworthy practices.”

29. Slippery

Slippery describes someone who is difficult to catch or hold onto, both figuratively and literally. It implies that the person is elusive, evasive, and hard to pin down.

For instance, a slippery person might avoid answering direct questions or giving clear explanations.
In a game of tag, a slippery player might be hard to catch because they are constantly dodging and weaving.
A person might describe a con artist as slippery, saying, “They always manage to slip away before anyone realizes they’ve been scammed.”

30. Artful

Artful describes someone who is skilled in the art of deception and manipulation. It implies that the person is clever, crafty, and able to deceive others with finesse.

For example, an artful liar might be able to create elaborate stories that are difficult to disprove.
In a game of poker, an artful player might use their skills to bluff and deceive their opponents.
A person might describe a master manipulator as artful, saying, “They always know exactly what to say to get what they want.”

31. Duplicative

This term refers to someone who is deceitful or dishonest, often pretending to be someone they’re not. “Duplicative” is a less common slang term for someone who exhibits duplicitous behavior.

For example, in a discussion about a manipulative person, someone might say, “Watch out for him, he’s totally duplicative.”
A person might describe a friend who betrayed them as, “I never expected her to be so duplicative.”
In a story about a con artist, a character might say, “His duplicative nature allowed him to deceive even the most skeptical individuals.”

32. Pernicious

This term describes someone who is deceitful or harmful in a subtle and often unnoticed way. “Pernicious” is a more formal term for someone who exhibits duplicitous behavior.

For instance, in a conversation about a toxic relationship, someone might say, “She had a pernicious way of manipulating him.”
A person might describe a colleague who spreads rumors as, “He’s so pernicious, always trying to undermine others.”
In a story about a villain, a character might say, “His pernicious actions led to the downfall of many innocent people.”

33. Slick

This term refers to someone who is clever, charming, and skilled at deceit. “Slick” is a slang term often used to describe someone who is duplicitous.

For example, in a discussion about a con artist, someone might say, “He’s a slick operator, always finding a way to deceive people.”
A person might describe a politician who is skilled at manipulating the public as, “He’s a slick talker, but you can’t trust a word he says.”
In a story about a master thief, a character might say, “She’s slick as they come, always one step ahead of the law.”

34. Subtle

This term describes someone who is crafty and cunning in their deceit. “Subtle” is a more nuanced term for someone who exhibits duplicitous behavior.

For instance, in a conversation about a manipulative friend, someone might say, “She’s so subtle in her lies, you never know when she’s telling the truth.”
A person might describe a coworker who manipulates others for personal gain as, “He’s subtle in his tactics, always looking out for himself.”
In a story about a spy, a character might say, “Her subtle actions allowed her to gather valuable information without raising suspicion.”

35. Wily

This term refers to someone who is clever, crafty, and skilled at deception. “Wily” is a slang term often used to describe someone who is duplicitous.

For example, in a discussion about a manipulative partner, someone might say, “He’s a wily one, always finding a way to get what he wants.”
A person might describe a con artist who is skilled at swindling others as, “He’s a wily character, never to be trusted.”
In a story about a mastermind criminal, a character might say, “His wily tactics allowed him to outsmart even the most seasoned detectives.”

36. Astute

This term refers to someone who is quick-witted and perceptive. It can also imply a level of cunning or shrewdness.

For instance, “He made an astute observation that no one else had noticed.”
In a business context, one might say, “She is an astute negotiator who always gets the best deal.”
A person discussing politics might comment, “The astute politician knows how to appeal to different voter demographics.”

37. Cagy

This slang term describes someone who is cautious and secretive, often with a hidden agenda or ulterior motives.

For example, “He’s always so cagy about his plans. I never know what he’s really up to.”
In a discussion about relationships, one might say, “She’s cagy about her past, which makes me wonder what she’s hiding.”
A person describing a suspicious individual might say, “He had a cagy look in his eyes, like he was plotting something.”

38. Foxy

While this term can refer to someone who is physically attractive, it can also imply a level of cunning or slyness.

For instance, “She’s a foxy lady with charm and intelligence.”
In a discussion about flirting, one might say, “He used his foxy charm to win her over.”
A person describing a deceptive individual might comment, “He’s a foxy character who knows how to manipulate others.”

39. Tricky

This term describes someone who is deceitful or prone to deceit. It can also refer to a situation or task that is difficult to navigate or solve.

For example, “He’s a tricky guy who always manages to get what he wants.”
In a discussion about puzzles, one might say, “This crossword is really tricky. I can’t figure out the answers.”
A person describing a complicated problem might comment, “It’s a tricky situation that requires careful consideration.”

40. Dissembling

This term refers to the act of concealing one’s true intentions or feelings. It implies a deliberate attempt to deceive or mislead.

For instance, “She was dissembling about her involvement in the scandal.”
In a discussion about politics, one might say, “Politicians are experts at dissembling to gain public support.”
A person describing a manipulative individual might comment, “He’s always dissembling to get what he wants.”

41. False-hearted

This term refers to someone who is not sincere or trustworthy. It describes a person who pretends to have good intentions but actually has ulterior motives.

For example, “I can’t believe she betrayed us like that. She’s so false-hearted.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “Watch out for people who seem charming but are actually false-hearted.”
A person might warn others by saying, “Don’t be fooled by his friendly demeanor. He’s really false-hearted.”