Unsociable: meaning, definitions and examples

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unsociable

[ʌnˈsoʊʃəbl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

personality trait

Not inclined to seek or enjoy the company of others; not sociable or friendly.

Synonyms

antisocial, introverted, reclusive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unsociable	When someone prefers not to engage in social activities or gatherings, but it doesn't necessarily indicate a deeper issue with society or people. He is quite unsociable and often skips office parties
antisocial	When someone actively avoids social interactions and may exhibit behaviors that are against societal norms. This term has a more negative connotation. Her antisocial behavior made it difficult for her to make friends
reclusive	When someone deliberately chooses to live in isolation, often away from society. It often implies a voluntary withdrawal from social life. The author led a reclusive life in the mountains, rarely interacting with anyone
introverted	When someone enjoys spending time alone or in smaller, more intimate settings rather than large social gatherings. This term generally has a neutral or even positive tone. As an introverted person, he prefers reading a book at home over going to a party

Examples of usage

She was always quiet and unsociable at parties.
His unsociable behavior made it difficult for him to make friends.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

behavior

Avoiding or lacking in social interaction; not willing to engage in social activities.

Synonyms

aloof, standoffish, withdrawn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unsociable	Used to describe someone who generally avoids social interactions and dislikes company. This word carries a slightly negative connotation. He is quite unsociable and rarely attends any company events Her unsociable nature makes it hard for her to make friends
aloof	Describes someone who is distant, either physically or emotionally. It implies that the person is detached or disinterested. She remained aloof during the meeting, hardly contributing to the conversation His aloof demeanor made him seem unapproachable
withdrawn	Describes someone who is very quiet and does not want to talk to other people. Often, this is because they are shy or overwhelmed. After the tragedy, he became very withdrawn and avoided social gatherings She is naturally withdrawn, preferring to spend time alone
standoffish	Refers to someone who deliberately keeps their distance from others. It implies a reserved or unfriendly attitude and has a negative connotation. The new employee seemed standoffish and didn't mingle with his coworkers Her standoffish attitude made people hesitant to talk to her

Examples of usage

Her unsociable attitude towards team projects often caused conflict.
He found the party atmosphere too overwhelming and unsociable.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from 'un' meaning 'not' and 'sociable,' which means friendly or enjoying company.
It first appeared in English writings around the early 19th century, originating from the Latin 'sociabilis' meaning 'able to be companions.'

Psychology

Some people are naturally more introverted, preferring solitary activities like reading or art over social gatherings.
Unsociability can also be linked to social anxiety, where individuals feel nervous or uncomfortable in social situations.
Cultural factors may influence how sociable a person feels; some societies value extroversion, while others appreciate solitude.

Literature

In many literary works, unsociable characters often symbolize complexity and depth, representing internal struggles.
Classic novels frequently feature unsociable figures, like Sherlock Holmes, who embraces solitude while solving mysteries.
Writers use unsociable characters to create tension or highlight themes of isolation and individuality.

Pop Culture

Certain film characters, like Bruce Wayne from Batman, initially present as unsociable but reveal deeper connections throughout the storyline.
In music, many celebrated artists draw inspiration from their unsociable tendencies, leading to introspective and powerful lyrics.

Science

Research suggests that the brain's reward system responds differently in unsociable individuals, impacting their social interactions.
Studies reveal that unsociable behavior is often linked with higher levels of creativity, where individual thinking thrives away from group dynamics.

Translations

Translations of the word "unsociable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 insociável

🇮🇳 असंवेदनशील

🇩🇪 unsozial

🇮🇩 antisosial

🇺🇦 нетовариський

🇵🇱 nietowarzyski

🇯🇵 非社交的 (ひしゃこうてき)

🇫🇷 insociable

🇪🇸 insociable

🇹🇷 sosyalsiz

🇰🇷 비사교적인 (bisagyojeogin)

🇸🇦 غير اجتماعي (ghayr ijtimaeii)

🇨🇿 nespolečenský

🇸🇰 nespoločenský

🇨🇳 不爱交际的 (bù ài jiāojì de)

🇸🇮 nesocialen

🇮🇸 ósamskiptisamur

🇰🇿 әлеуметтік емес (äleumettik emes)

🇬🇪 არასოციალური (arasotzialuri)

🇦🇿 ünsiyyətsiz

🇲🇽 insociable

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,977 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
33974 cordoned
33975 sullenness
33976 ornately
33977 unsociable
33978 disavowing
33979 isobar
33980 groveling
...