duplicity
doo-PLIH-sih-tee
/djuːˈplɪsəti/
Deceitfulness in speech or conduct, as by speaking or acting in two different ways concerning the same matter.
Specifically refers to double-dealing or being 'two-faced'—presenting one face to someone and another behind their back.
The story behind the word. Duplicity comes from the Latin 'duplicitas', from 'duplex', which literally means 'twofold' or 'double' (from 'duo' meaning two, and 'plicare' meaning to fold). A duplicitous person has 'folded' their true intentions inside, showing only the outside.
Word relationships
- deceit: Deceit is a general term for lying, while duplicity specifically emphasizes the 'two-sided' nature of the deception.
- sincerity: Sincerity is the quality of being open, honest, and consistent in one's feelings and actions.
Commonly confused with
- duplication: Duplication is the act of copying something, while duplicity is the act of double-dealing.
Word family
- duplicitous (adjective): Given to or characterized by double-dealing.
Collocations
- uncover duplicity
- political duplicity
- accused of duplicity
Idioms & expressions
- two-faced
- speak with a double tongue
Example sentences
- "The public was outraged when they discovered the senator's duplicity, as he had voted against the very bill he privately funded." A description of a corrupt politician's career.
Memory hook
Think of 'duplicate'. A duplicitous person has a duplicate personality—one they show you, and one they hide. A duplicate, hidden face.
When not to use
Do not use for a simple lie; duplicity requires a sustained pattern of double-dealing.
Fun facts
- The root 'plicare' (to fold) also gives us 'complicate' (folded together) and 'explicate' (to unfold/explain).
Related words
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