standoffish
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: - Reserved, aloof, or unsociable: Describes a person who maintains a degree of distance, is not friendly or forthcoming, and seems deliberately remote or unapproachable.
Usage
The adjective "standoffish" describes a person's manner or behavior. It is typically used to indicate a lack of warmth or willingness to engage socially. It often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting the person is cold or deliberately keeping others at a distance. - It is used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb like be, seem, act). - It describes a consistent characteristic, not a temporary mood.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- "to remain standoffish": to continue to be aloof.
- Despite their friendly overtures, she chose to remain standoffish.
- "standoffishness" (noun): the quality of being standoffish.
- His standoffishness was often misinterpreted as rudeness.
Variants and Related Words
- Aloof (adj.): Similar to standoffish, emphasizing emotional distance and disinterest.
- Reserved (adj.): Less negative than standoffish; implies quietness and restraint in expressing feelings.
- Unsociable (adj.): Not inclined to seek or enjoy the company of others.
- Detached (adj.): Impartial and objective, often without emotional involvement.
Synonyms
- Aloof
- Distant
- Unapproachable
- Cold
- Unfriendly
Antonyms
- Friendly
- Approachable
- Sociable
- Warm
- Outgoing
Related Idioms/Phrases
- To keep one's distance: To maintain a physical or emotional space from someone or something, similar to being standoffish.
- After the argument, he decided to keep his distance from the committee.
- To give someone the cold shoulder: To deliberately ignore or be unfriendly to someone.
- She gave him the cold shoulder at the party, which felt very standoffish.
Adjective
- lacking cordiality; unfriendly
- a standoffish manner