Janus-faced
/ˈdʒeɪnəsˌfeɪst/
ADJECTIVE
1. Deceitful or hypocritical
Deliberately deceptive or dishonest, especially by pretending to have one set of feelings or intentions while secretly acting according to another.
1.1. Pretending to be sincere while acting dishonestly
Describing someone who presents a false appearance of honesty, loyalty, or goodwill while concealing different intentions.
Synonyms
- two-faced
- duplicitous
- double-faced
- double-tongued
- double-dealing
- deceitful
- dishonest
- hypocritical
- insincere
- dissembling
Antonyms
- sincere
- honest
- trustworthy
- genuine
- frank
- forthright
- straightforward
- truthful
Examples
- The janus-faced politician publicly supported the proposal while secretly working against it.
- Her janus-faced behavior made it difficult for colleagues to trust her.
Related Words
- devious
- treacherous
- untrustworthy
- disingenuous
- perfidious
- mendacious
- duplicity
ADJECTIVE
2. Having two contrasting aspects
Having two opposing or contrasting characteristics, qualities, or perspectives.
2.1. Displaying contrasting characteristics
Describing something that combines two opposing or significantly different qualities or aspects.
Synonyms
- contradictory
- contrasting
- ambivalent
- bipolar
- dual
- two-sided
- opposing
Antonyms
Examples
- The janus-faced policy offered economic opportunities while creating serious environmental problems.
- The novel presents a janus-faced view of progress, showing both its benefits and its costs.
Related Words
- paradoxical
- conflicting
- multifaceted
- dualistic
- polarized
2.2. Looking toward the past and the future
Describing something that simultaneously considers or represents both past and future perspectives.
Synonyms
- two-faced
- two-sided
- dual-aspect
Examples
- The anniversary marked a janus-faced moment, reflecting on past achievements while anticipating future challenges.
- The historical monument has a janus-faced symbolism, connecting the nation's past with its future.
Related Words
- retrospective
- prospective
- transitional
- forward-looking
- backward-looking