Insular: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing someone or something that is inward-looking, narrow-minded, or not interested in different cultures or ideas.

• His insular attitude made it difficult for him to make friends from other backgrounds.
• The community was insular, resistant to change and outside influence.

Refers to being physically or socially separated from others, often in a way that can lead to loneliness or a sense of being cut off.

• After moving to the remote village, she felt isolated from her friends and family.
• The pandemic has left many people feeling isolated and alone.

Used to describe a place that is far away from other places, or something that seems unlikely or distant.

• They decided to visit a remote island for their vacation, far from the busy city life.
• There is only a remote chance of rain today, so you don't need an umbrella.

Describes a person who is emotionally uninvolved or indifferent, or something that is physically separated from something else.

• She remained detached during the heated discussion, not showing any emotions.
• The house had a detached garage that was separate from the main building.

Used to describe someone or something that is isolated, typically as a result of a lack of interest in cultures, ideas, or people from outside one's own area or group.

• Living in such a small village, she had a rather insular perspective on the world

Indicates a person who is not willing to accept or understand different opinions, beliefs, or behaviors, usually implying a limited and biased viewpoint.

• Her narrow-minded attitude made it difficult for her to appreciate the diverse opinions in the discussion

Refers to a limited or narrow outlook, often highlighting a focus on local or small-scale issues at the expense of broader perspectives, similar to 'insular' but can also imply a bias towards one's own area or group.

• His parochial views prevented him from seeing the benefits of global cooperation

Describes someone who is unwilling to consider new ideas or different opinions, often leading to a lack of openness and inflexibility.

• He is so close-minded that he refuses to listen to anyone else's suggestions