Word Finder
What's the word for someone with double standards?
The word you're looking for
A hypocrite is someone who claims to believe in or follow certain principles but doesn't apply them to their own behavior, especially when judging others by stricter standards than they apply to themselves. This directly captures the essence of having double standards.
Other words that fit
Use this more informal, conversational term when emphasizing that someone shows different personalities to different people rather than applying different standards.
Prefer this formal word when you want to emphasize deceptive or treacherous behavior in dealings, rather than just contradicting stated values.
This casual, colloquial word works when describing someone who is insincere or not genuine, though it's less precise about the 'standards' aspect.
Why this word
A hypocrite is someone who fails to live by the standards and values they publicly claim to believe in. The core of hypocrisy is the contradiction between what someone professes and what they actually do—especially when they hold others to those standards while exempting themselves. This is the essence of double standards: demanding different behavior from others than you demand from yourself. While similar words like "two-faced" (deceitful, showing different personalities to different people) and "double-dealer" (someone engaging in treacherous dealings) describe related behavior, "hypocrite" most precisely captures the concept of applying double standards. A common mistake is using "hypocrite" for someone who simply changes their mind—true hypocrisy involves deliberate contradiction between stated beliefs and actual actions.
In context
- He criticizes his employees for being late but arrives at work late himself—a real hypocrite.
- The politician preaches honesty while secretly taking bribes; what a hypocrite.
- She tells her children to eat healthy but orders fast food every day; that's hypocritical.
Other concepts to find a word for
Frequently asked questions
- Is a hypocrite always aware of their own hypocrisy?
- Not necessarily. Some people genuinely don't see their own contradictions, while others are fully aware but choose to ignore them anyway.
- Can I call someone a hypocrite if they never actually stated what they believe?
- Not really. A hypocrite must have publicly stated or clearly shown what they believe in—otherwise their actions aren't contradicting stated principles.
- What's the adjective form of hypocrite?
- The adjective is 'hypocritical' (for example: 'That's hypocritical behavior').
- Is calling someone a hypocrite considered rude or offensive?
- Yes, it's generally a strong criticism and is considered insulting. Use it carefully in formal or professional situations.