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duplicitous

adjective

/duˈplɪs ɪ təs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of duplicitous

Deceitfulness or double-dealing.
"The duplicitous salesman used false promises to lure unsuspecting customers into purchasing low-quality products."

Detailed meaning of duplicitous

It describes someone who deliberately presents themselves as honest or trustworthy while concealing their true intentions or engaging in deceptive behavior. A duplicitous individual often manipulates others through dishonesty, trickery, or the deliberate withholding of information. Such behavior can undermine trust and create a sense of betrayal, as the duplicitous person seeks personal gain or advantage at the expense of others' well-being. The term "duplicitous" suggests a calculated and cunning approach, highlighting the untrustworthiness and moral ambiguity of the person or action in question.

Example sentences containing duplicitous

1. The politician's duplicitous statements during the campaign shattered the public's trust in his integrity.
2. Sarah's duplicitous behavior was exposed when her secret agenda came to light.
3. The company's duplicitous accounting practices led to a major scandal and legal repercussions.
4. Mark's duplicitous friendship became evident when he betrayed his closest ally for personal gain.
5. The duplicitous spy skillfully maintained a façade of loyalty while secretly working for the enemy.
6. The CEO's duplicitous actions, such as embezzling company funds, caused the downfall of the once-successful corporation.

History and etymology of duplicitous

The adjective 'duplicitous' has its etymological roots in the Latin language. It is derived from the Latin word 'duplicare,' which means 'to double' or 'to fold in two.' The term 'duplicare' is related to 'duplex,' signifying 'double' or 'twofold.' Therefore, the etymology of 'duplicitous' conveys the idea of deceitfulness or double-dealing, as if one's actions or words are folded in two, presenting a facade or deceptive appearance that hides their true intentions or motives. 'Duplicitous' is used to describe individuals or behaviors that involve a deliberate and often secretive practice of dishonesty or betrayal, reflecting the double nature implied by its Latin origins.

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Further usage examples of duplicitous

1. The duplicitous scheme involved forging documents to secure an unfair advantage in the bidding process.
2. Jenny was hurt by her friend's duplicitous behavior, as she had always believed they shared a genuine bond of trust.
3. The politician's duplicitous nature was revealed when leaked emails exposed his contradictory public and private statements.
4. John's duplicitous nature made it difficult for anyone to trust his words or intentions.
5. The duplicitous contractor overcharged the client by submitting inflated invoices for services that were never rendered.
6. His duplicitous behavior left a trail of broken trust in its wake.
7. She uncovered his duplicitous motives in their complicated relationship.
8. The politician's duplicitous promises only served his agenda.
9. Detecting her duplicitous intentions became increasingly difficult.
10. The friend's duplicitous actions shattered their friendship.
11. The spy's duplicitous cover story fooled many.
12. We must be cautious of duplicitous individuals in business.
13. The duplicitous plot of the movie kept viewers guessing.
14. His duplicitous charm concealed a darker side.
15. The corporate scandal revealed a web of duplicitous dealings.
16. Detecting duplicitous behavior requires a keen sense of observation.
17. The betrayal felt even worse because it was so duplicitous.
18. She exposed the duplicitous nature of the con artist.
19. The courtroom drama unveiled a web of duplicitous characters.
20. His duplicitous words contradicted his true intentions.
21. The duplicitous scheme was executed with precision.
22. The investigator unraveled the duplicitous conspiracy.
23. Trust was hard to rebuild after his duplicitous actions.
24. The duplicitous nature of the scheme shocked everyone.
25. The movie's ending revealed the duplicitous nature of the protagonist.