hinterhältig
deceitful · treacherous · sneaky · underhanded
Definition & meaning
The adjective hinterhältig describes a person or an action that is deceitful, treacherous, or underhanded. It refers to behavior characterized by hidden motives, malice, or the intent to harm someone while pretending to be friendly or harmless. A hinterhältig person acts behind another person's back rather than confronting them openly.
Grammar & Word origin
Hinterhältig is an adjective that can be inflected according to its position in a sentence (e.g., ein hinterhältiger Angriff, das Verhalten ist hinterhältig).
The word is a compound derived from the noun Hinterhalt , which translates to "ambush." The suffix -ig is used to turn the noun into an adjective. Literally, it describes someone who acts as if they are lying in wait to strike from the shadows.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- heimtückisch (insidious, perfidious)
- tückisch (treacherous, tricky)
- falsch (false, insincere)
- hinterlistig (crafty, sly)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Er benahm sich sehr hinterhältig.adjective
He behaved very deceitfully.
Die hinterhältige Täuschung verletzte viele Menschen.adjective
The treacherous deception hurt many people.
Seine hinterhältigen Bemerkungen störten die ganze Gruppe.adjective
His sneaky remarks bothered the whole group.
Die hinterhältige Falle blieb lange unentdeckt.adjective
The treacherous trap remained undiscovered for a long time.
Sie verbreitete hinterhältige Lügen über ihre Kollegin.adjective
She spread underhanded lies about her colleague.
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