Uncommunicative Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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uncommunicative

[ˌʌnkəmˈjuːnɪkətɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Not inclined to talk or give information; reserved.

Synonyms

reserved, reticent, taciturn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uncommunicative

This word is often used to describe someone who is not willing to share their thoughts or feelings. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of openness or friendliness.

  • He was uncommunicative during the meeting, making it hard to know what he was thinking.
  • After the argument, she became very uncommunicative and distant.
taciturn

This word is used for someone who is habitually silent or speaks very little. It often has a more neutral or slightly formal tone.

  • The taciturn old man rarely joined in on conversations but was always listening.
  • Her taciturn nature made her a mystery to her colleagues.
reticent

This word is used when someone is not willing to speak or share information. It often suggests a deliberate choice not to speak.

  • He appeared reticent when asked about his past.
  • Despite being asked many questions, she remained reticent and said very little.
reserved

Use this word to describe someone who is restrained or moderate in their emotions and expressions. It often implies a polite or dignified reticence.

  • She is a reserved person and doesn't share personal details easily.
  • Although friendly, John is quite reserved and likes to keep to himself.

Examples of usage

  • He was so uncommunicative during the meeting that no one could figure out what he was thinking.
  • She is known for being uncommunicative, which can make it difficult to work with her.
Context #2 | Adjective

personality

Not willing or able to talk to others; not sociable.

Synonyms

introverted, silent, unsociable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uncommunicative

Describes someone who rarely speaks or shares thoughts and feelings. Often used to describe a lack of openness in communication.

  • The manager was uncommunicative about the company's future plans.
  • Despite being talented, she remained uncommunicative in team meetings.
silent

Describes someone who is not speaking at a particular moment. It can also imply a general tendency to speak very little.

  • He remained silent throughout the entire meeting.
  • The room was silent after the shocking announcement.
unsociable

Has a negative connotation. Describes someone who avoids social interactions and does not like being around people.

  • Her unsociable nature made it difficult for her to form friendships at work.
  • He was often seen as unsociable because he rarely attended company events.
introverted

Describes someone who prefers solitary activities and gets energy from being alone rather than from social interactions. It does not necessarily imply a lack of communication but a preference for quieter settings.

  • John is introverted and enjoys reading books over attending parties.
  • As an introverted person, she tends to avoid large social gatherings.

Examples of usage

  • His uncommunicative nature made it hard for him to make friends.
  • The uncommunicative child sat alone at the playground.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People may be uncommunicative due to shyness, anxiety, or past experiences that discourage open conversation.
  • Quiet individuals can be misinterpreted as uncommunicative when they are actually observant or thoughtful.
  • Communication styles can vary widely, and some prefer listening over speaking, which may lead to being seen as uncommunicative.

Personal Relationships

  • In relationships, uncommunicative behavior can lead to misunderstandings and emotional distance.
  • Some partners might struggle to express feelings, creating challenges in intimate relationships.
  • Effective communication is crucial; learning to discuss feelings can transform uncommunicative situations into open dialogues.

Workplace Dynamics

  • In a team, uncommunicative members can slow down progress because their ideas aren't shared.
  • Managers often seek to encourage communication to ensure everyone feels heard and valued.
  • Work environments that promote open communication tend to have higher job satisfaction and productivity.

Pop Culture

  • Characters in films or books who are uncommunicative often create a mysterious persona, drawing interest to their backstory.
  • Some famous literary figures, like the silent hero, are often portrayed as uncommunicative but deeply thoughtful.
  • TV shows and movies sometimes use uncommunicative characters to highlight the importance of communication in relationships.

Origin of 'uncommunicative'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'communicare', meaning 'to share'.
  • The prefix 'un-' indicates the opposite, so it means not sharing.
  • It has been in use in English since the early 19th century, often used to describe people's behavior.

The word 'uncommunicative' originated from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'opposite of', and the word 'communicative' meaning 'willing to talk or impart information'. The term dates back to the mid-19th century and has been used to describe individuals who are reserved or unwilling to engage in communication.


See also: communicable, communicated, communicating, communication, communicative, communicator, miscommunication, telecommunication, telecommunications, uncommunicatively.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,082 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.