dishonest

word

/dɪˈsɑnəst/
dis-AH-nist
/dɪsˈɒnɪst/
dis-ON-ist

Definition

Someone who is dishonest does not tell the truth or tries to cheat, lie, or steal. It describes people or actions that cannot be trusted.

Usage & Nuances

Mostly used formally or neutrally, rarely as slang. Common collocations: 'dishonest behavior', 'dishonest person', 'dishonest practices.' Often confused with 'untruthful' or 'deceitful', but 'dishonest' is broader and includes all kinds of cheating and lying.

Example Sentences

A dishonest person tells lies.

basic

I can’t trust him—he’s too dishonest.

natural

Some companies use dishonest advertising to trick customers.

natural

Even a small dishonest action can break someone’s trust.

natural

Stealing money is a dishonest act.

basic

The store owner fired him for being dishonest.

basic