Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Unsociable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🚷
Add to dictionary

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?

arrow down
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aloof, standoffish, withdrawn.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?

arrow down
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withdrawn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  • After the tragedy, he became very withdrawn and avoided social gatherings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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'unsociable'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.'

The word 'unsociable' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'sociable' which comes from the Latin 'sociabilis' meaning 'social, friendly'. The term has been used in English since the 17th century to describe individuals who are not inclined to seek or enjoy the company of others.

See also: antisocial, resocialization, sociability, socialist, socialite, socialization, socialize.

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.