Unapproachable: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when describing someone who appears intimidating or difficult to engage in conversation. It often conveys a sense of inaccessibility, whether due to personality or social factors.

• Despite her kind nature, her stern expression makes her seem unapproachable.
• The manager's unapproachable demeanor made it hard for employees to voice their concerns.

Describes someone who is emotionally detached or indifferent. This word can have a slightly negative connotation, suggesting coldness or lack of interest in others.

• He remained aloof during the meeting, not showing any interest in the discussions.
• At the party, she was aloof, preferring to observe rather than participate.

Implies physical or emotional separation. It can describe someone who is uncommunicative or withdrawn, making people feel they are far away either literally or metaphorically.

• Since the argument, he has been distant and hard to reach.
• The actor's distant behavior made fans feel unwelcome.

Describes someone who is unfriendly or cold in social interactions. This word has a negative connotation, implying deliberate disengagement or rudeness.

• He was standoffish at the event, avoiding conversations with everyone.
• Her standoffish attitude made it difficult for new members to feel welcomed.

Refers to someone who is quiet and restrained, particularly in social situations. This term doesn't necessarily carry a negative connotation and can describe someone who is simply private.

• She is reserved but very thoughtful when you get to know her.
• He is reserved in meetings, rarely speaking unless asked directly.

Describes someone who is difficult to talk to or seems unfriendly, often due to their demeanor or status.

• The CEO seemed unapproachable, with a strict expression and a busy schedule.
• Despite her talent, her unapproachable attitude made it hard for people to offer her help.

Refers to places or objects that are difficult or impossible to reach, often due to physical barriers. Can also describe information or resources that are difficult to obtain.

• The mountain peak was inaccessible due to the heavy snowfall.
• Without the proper credentials, the data was completely inaccessible.

Implies a location that is far away from populated areas, often difficult to access due to its distance.

• The research team set up camp in a remote part of the desert.
• He grew up in a remote village with no access to modern amenities.

Used to describe someone or something that is alone or separated from others, either physically or socially.

• The small cabin in the woods felt very isolated, miles away from the nearest town.
• After moving to a new city, she felt isolated without any friends or family nearby.

Describes something or someone that cannot be reached, either physically or by communication means. It can also signify a goal or target that is impossible to achieve.

• Due to the storm, the island was unreachable by boat.
• Her phone was switched off and she was unreachable for the entire day.