Cool MateDishonest
UK /["/dɪsˈɒnɪst/"]/US /["/dɪsˈɑːnɪst/"]/
Definition
not honest; intending to trick people
In simple words: Not truthful or fair; lying or cheating.
Examples
- Beware of dishonest traders in the tourist areas.
- She has been dishonest with voters.
- He has been dishonest about his age and academic qualifications.
- I don't like him, and it would be dishonest of me to pretend otherwise.
- I think he's downright dishonest!
- What they are doing is not considered dishonest.
Usage notes
Use 'dishonest' to describe someone who is not truthful. It's appropriate in most contexts but may sound strong or formal in casual conversations.
Grammar pattern
dishonest + about something
Memory hint
Think of 'dishonest' as 'this is not honest' — identify the 'dish' like a meal, but it’s not the right one.
Collocations
- be
- seem
- become
- deeply
- thoroughly
- very
Synonyms
- deceitful
- untruthful
- fraudulent
- dishonorable
Antonyms
- honest
- truthful
- genuine
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'dishonesty' — 'dishonest' describes the person, while 'dishonesty' is the state of being.
- Using it in place of 'dishonorable' — they have different meanings.
- Overusing in casual speech — it can feel harsh in friendly settings.