phoney
word
Definition
Someone or something that is not real, genuine, or is pretending to be something they’re not. 'Phoney' is commonly used to call someone fake, insincere, or dishonest.
Usage & Nuances
'Phoney' is informal and can sound harsh or accusing. In American English, 'phony' (different spelling) is more common. Often used to describe people pretending to be something they're not, like 'a phoney accent' or 'he's such a phoney.' Not usually for objects unless referring to fakes or copies.
Example Sentences
At first he seemed friendly, but he turned out to be a total phoney.
natural
She acts nice in public, but everyone knows she’s a phoney.
natural
He is a phoney who lies to everyone.
basic
Don’t trust her, she’s a phoney.
basic
The story was a phoney, made up to get attention.
basic
That signature looks phoney to me—are you sure it’s real?
natural