Words / C2

MIS-uh-nthrohp/ˈmɪsənθrəʊp/

A misanthrope dislikes and distrusts people: a cheerful misanthrope (often ironic), misanthropic (adjective). Cynic doubts motives; hermit withdraws. Philanthropist is the etymological opposite. Do not call a shy introvert a misanthrope.

Meaning

A person who dislikes and distrusts other people.

Examples

• “A misanthrope can still mark fairly; a bully cannot.”
• “A misanthrope can still mark fairly; contempt in the margins is a different vice.”
• “Misanthropic is the adjective. A hermit avoids company; a misanthrope resents humankind. Shy ≠ hostile.”

Good to know

A people-hater. Adjective: misanthropic. Contrast: hermit (withdraws); cynic (doubts motives). Opposite family: philanthropist. Not mere shyness.

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