Dissembler

A dissembler is an individual who conceals their true motives, feelings, or beliefs; a person who puts on a false appearance or pretends to be something they are not. This deception may range from small white lies to elaborate schemes. Dissemblers often rely on subtle cues, carefully chosen words, and calculated actions to create a specific impression, frequently for personal gain or to avoid conflict. They can be adept at manipulating social situations and others' perceptions, making it difficult to discern their true intentions. Their actions often contradict their outward expressions.

Dissembler meaning with examples

• The politician, a skilled dissembler, delivered a speech full of patriotic fervor, while simultaneously accepting bribes from foreign entities. His genuine allegiances remained hidden, masked by carefully crafted pronouncements. The audience, swayed by his apparent sincerity, remained oblivious to his duplicity and the true nature of his actions and personal gains that were contrary to his public statements.
• Caught in a lie, the suspect, a practiced dissembler, continued to deny any involvement, even as evidence mounted against him. His calm demeanor and unwavering gaze were a deliberate attempt to mislead investigators, obfuscating the truth through a façade of innocence. Despite concrete information, they refused to accept blame and showed great reluctance to admit to the falsehood.
• The character in the play was a dissembler, hiding his love for the heroine behind a mask of indifference and playful insults. He used wit and charm to conceal his true emotions, a calculated strategy to protect his vulnerability. His actions contrasted sharply with his inner feelings. He was an actor pretending to be a friend.
• During the negotiation, the salesperson acted as a dissembler, feigning interest in the customer's needs while primarily focused on closing the deal. The salesman masked his self-serving motives with an air of friendliness, using persuasive tactics to secure a sale. The salesperson’s dishonesty and false praise made it difficult to determine whether to trust him.