лицеме́р
licemérmasculine
The English word 'hypocrite' is translated into Russian as лицеме́р (licemér). Wiktionary also lists ханжа́ (xanžá).
Meaning: person practising hypocrisy (noun)
Ways to say it
| Russian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| лицеме́р | licemér | masculine |
| ханжа́ | xanžá | masculine |
Which one should you use?
лицеме́р is the standard, general term for a hypocrite, often used for someone whose actions contradict their stated beliefs or values. In contrast, ханжа́ specifically describes a person who is sanctimonious or hypocritically moralistic, often someone who acts overly virtuous or judgmental. Additionally, the term фарисе́й translates to 'Pharisee' and refers to someone who displays hypocrisy under the guise of being religiously pious.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of лицеме́р is лицеме́ры, while the plural form of ханжа́ is ханжи́.
How do you pronounce it?
licemér
Did you know?
- In Russian, the word лицеме́рие (hypocrisy) can sometimes carry a heavier, more theatrical connotation than the English 'hypocrisy', often implying a calculated performance.
- Calling someone a ханжа́ is often considered more insulting than calling them a лицеме́р because it implies a smug, judgmental attitude toward others.
- The word лицеме́р can be used in Russian to describe not just people, but also certain types of dishonest political or social systems.
Examples in context
- Он тако́й лицеме́р, всегда́ де́лает обеща́ния, но не сдержи́вает их.He is such a hypocrite, always making promises but not keeping them.
Example conversation
Ekaterina and Sergey are discussing a mutual acquaintance.
- Екатерина EkaterinaСергей, он говорит одно, а делает другое.Sergey, on govorit odno, a delaet drugoe.Sergey, he says one thing and does another.
- Сергей SergeyДа, он просто большой лицеме́р.Da, on prosto bolshoy litsemer.Yes, he is just a big hypocrite.
- Екатерина EkaterinaЯ больше не буду ему доверять.Ya bol'she ne budu emu doveryat'.I will not trust him anymore.
- Сергей SergeyЭто будет правильным решением.Eto budet pravil'nym resheniyem.That will be the right decision.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “hypocrite” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
