disingenuous

/ˌdɪs.ɪn.ˈdʒɛn.ju.əs/adjective

Not honest or sincere, especially by pretending to know less or care more than you really do.

Example sentences

“It is disingenuous to say you never saw the email.”
“Critics called the company's apology disingenuous and too late.”
“He gave a disingenuous answer to avoid taking responsibility.”

Often appears in 'It is disingenuous to...' or 'a disingenuous argument'. Don't confuse it with 'ingenious', which means clever.

Featured as word of the day on September 18, 2026.

Synonyms for disingenuous

insincere
dishonest
hypocritical

Antonyms

sincere
candid
honest

Often confused with disingenuous

disingenuous vs ingenuous: ingenuous (adjective): Innocent and trusting; open and without cunning.
disingenuous vs ingenious: ingenious (adjective): Very clever and original; showing inventive skill.

Find it in: Advanced English words.

Related words

disheveledUntidy and messy, especially of someone's hair, clothes, or general appearance.disparageTo talk about someone or something as if they have little value or importance.disdainfulShowing scorn and a marked lack of concern for people seen as beneath one's notice.disdainA feeling that someone or something is beneath you and deserves no respect.discordantClashing rather than fitting together in harmony or agreement.disquietA feeling of unease or worry; the absence of calm in the mind or body.