phony
8 synonyms and 2 antonyms for phony, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Fake or fraudulent; not genuine.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. adj
Fake or fraudulent; not genuine.
“He was arrested for using a phony passport.”
Opposites
How to use phony
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a phony excuse
sound phony
phony smile
Etymology
Origin uncertain; possibly an alteration of "fawny," old slang for a gilt ring used by street swindlers.
Full origin of phony →Frequently asked questions
What does “phony” mean?
The word “phony” means fake or fraudulent; not genuine. In plain terms, fake, insincere, or not the real thing — can describe an object, a person, or a feeling.
How do you pronounce “phony”?
“Phony” is pronounced FOH-nee (/ˈfoʊni/ in IPA).
How do you use “phony” in a sentence?
Here is “phony” used in a sentence: “He was arrested for using a phony passport.”
What is the opposite of “phony”?
The opposite of “phony” — its antonyms — are authentic and genuine.
What part of speech is “phony”?
Depending on how it is used, “phony” can be an adjective and a noun.
Is “phony” a common word?
“Phony” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “phony” have?
“Phony” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: fake or fraudulent; not genuine.
