Antisocial Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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antisocial
[หรฆntiหsoสสษl ]
Definitions
behavior
Opposed or hostile to the well-being of society; unwilling or unable to associate in a normal or friendly way with other people.
Synonyms
reclusive, unsociable, withdrawn.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antisocial |
Used to describe behavior that is against societal norms, often associated with harmful or disruptive actions. This term can have a negative connotation.
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| unsociable |
Describes someone who tends to avoid social interactions or does not enjoy being around others. This word can carry a slightly negative connotation, but not as strong as 'antisocial'.
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| reclusive |
Refers to a person who chooses to live in isolation from society, often intentionally and peacefully. It typically does not carry a negative connotation.
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| withdrawn |
Describes someone who is very quiet and not interested in social activities, often appearing distant or detached. It can imply a sense of emotional withdrawal or shyness.
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Examples of usage
- He was always quiet and antisocial at parties.
- The antisocial behavior of the teenagers worried the neighbors.
- She preferred to work alone, displaying antisocial tendencies.
personality disorder
A personality disorder characterized by a long-standing pattern of disregard for other people's rights, often accompanied by aggressive behavior without remorse.
Synonyms
criminal, psychopathic, sociopathic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antisocial |
Describes someone who avoids social interaction and prefers to be alone. This is generally neutral and not necessarily related to harmful behavior.
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Examples of usage
- The psychiatrist diagnosed him with antisocial personality disorder.
- People with antisocial traits may have difficulty forming close relationships.
- Antisocial individuals may engage in criminal activities.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Some individuals feel more comfortable alone or in small groups due to their personalities, which can lead to being labeled as antisocial.
- Certain mental health conditions can make social situations very uncomfortable, causing individuals to withdraw from social interactions.
- It's important to differentiate between being shy and being antisocial; shyness involves fear of social situations while antisocial behavior often reflects a choice.
Sociology
- Cultural factors influence how antisocial behavior is perceived; in some cultures, solitude is valued, while in others, it's frowned upon.
- Technology has changed social interactions for many, with some individuals preferring online connections over face-to-face communication.
- Urban settings often experience higher rates of perceived antisocial behavior due to crowded environments and the anonymity they can create.
Literature
- Many classic literary characters, like Holden Caulfield from 'The Catcher in the Rye,' display signs of antisocial tendencies, often representing deeper themes of isolation.
- Antisocial characters are frequently used in literature to explore themes of alienation and personal struggle.
- Modern literature often reflects the internal struggles of individuals who feel disconnected from society, portraying a variety of reasons behind antisocial behaviors.
Pop Culture
- Films often depict antisocial characters as misunderstood geniuses or rebels, such as in movies like 'Fight Club' or 'A Beautiful Mind.'
- In music, many artists express antisocial feelings through lyrics, resonating with listeners who feel similarly disconnected from society.
- Popular video game characters often embody antisocial traits, allowing players to explore these themes in interactive situations.
Historical Context
- Throughout history, figures known for their antisocial behavior have included intellectuals or artists who preferred isolation for creativity.
- The term 'antisocial' evolved over time; in the 18th century, it referred more generally to individuals not conforming to social norms.
- Historically, some societies treated antisocial behavior through isolation, seeing it as a threat to communal harmony.
Origin of 'antisocial'
The term 'antisocial' originated in the mid-18th century, combining 'anti-' meaning against or opposed to, and 'social' relating to society or companionship. It was initially used in the context of social behavior and later evolved to include psychological aspects. The concept of antisocial behavior has been studied extensively in psychology, sociology, and criminology.
See also: resocialization, sociability, socialist, socialite, socialization, socialize, unsociable.