C1adjectiveformalsocietypsychology
US/ˌhɪp.əˈkrɪt.ɪ.kəl/
UK/ˌhɪp.əˈkrɪt.ɪ.kəl/
saying that you have certain beliefs or standards but acting in a way that shows you do not
In context
It is hypocritical to criticize others for lateness when you are always late yourself.
Voters called the minister hypocritical after he broke the very rules he made.
She felt hypocritical telling her son to eat healthily while snacking on candy.
Words that go with hypocritical
adjective + preposition
- hypocritical aboutHe is hypocritical about money, always lecturing others on saving.
- hypocritical toIt would be hypocritical to complain about waste and then throw food away.
adverb + adjective
- rather hypocriticalI know it is rather hypocritical, but I disagree.
- deeply hypocriticalMany readers found the article deeply hypocritical.
- utterly hypocriticalTheir excuse was utterly hypocritical.
adjective + noun
- hypocritical attitudeHe has a hypocritical attitude toward honesty.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He is a hypocritical.Correct: He is a hypocrite.