Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Duplicity
noun
/ doo-PLIS-i-tee /
Medium
Meaning
Deceitfulness or double-dealing, especially in speech or conduct; saying one thing while intending another
Origin / Etymology
Latin duplicitas — from duplex meaning 'double'; the sense of being two-faced in conduct
Synonyms
Deceit
Treachery
Dissimulation
Double-dealing
Perfidy
Antonyms
Sincerity
Candour
Integrity
Example Sentence
"India's foreign policy analysts accused a neighbouring state of duplicity — publicly endorsing peace talks while covertly sponsoring cross-border terrorism."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Use in GS-2 (IR, security) answers when describing states that pursue contradictory foreign policy goals. Valuable in Mains essays on trust-deficit in diplomacy, Pakistan-India relations, or opacity in multilateral negotiations. Also fits GS-4 ethics answers on double standards in governance.
Relevant Subjects