False apostles (ψευδαποστολο). From ψευδης, false, and αποστολος. Paul apparently made this word (cf. Revelation 2:2). In verse 2. Corinthians 11:26 we have ψευδαδελφος, a word of like formation (Galatians 2:4). See also ψευδοχριστο and ψευδοπροφητα in Mark 13:22.

Deceitful (δολιο). Old word from δολος (lure, snare), only here in N.T. (cf. Romans 16:18).

Fashioning themselves (μετασχηματιζομενο). Present middle (direct) participle of the old verb μετασχηματιζω for which see on 1. Corinthians 4:6. Masquerading as apostles of Christ by putting on the outward habiliments, posing as ministers of Christ ("gentlemen of the cloth," nothing but cloth). Paul plays with this verb in verses 2. Corinthians 11:13; 2. Corinthians 11:14; 2. Corinthians 11:15.