WordValeintroverted
preferring solitude to social interaction
In more detail
1. (adjective) tending to be quiet and shy, preferring to spend time alone or with a few close friends rather than in large groups
2. (adjective) focused inward on one's own thoughts and feelings rather than on external events or other people
Examples
- 1. She is quite introverted and prefers reading at home to going to parties.
- 2. His introverted nature made him think deeply about his problems before discussing them with others.
How to use introverted
Introverted describes a personality tendency or temperament involving preference for inner reflection and smaller social circles, rather than a clinical condition or shyness disorder. It is often used in personality psychology (alongside extroverted) and is now widely recognized as a neutral trait rather than a flaw. Note that introversion differs from shyness: an introvert may be socially confident but simply prefer solitude, while a shy person fears social judgment.
Common phrases
- introverted personality
- introverted person
- naturally introverted
- somewhat introverted
- decidedly introverted
Synonyms
quiet · shy · reserved · withdrawn · solitary
Opposites
extroverted · outgoing · gregarious
Word family
introversion (noun) · introvert (noun) · introvertedly (adverb, rare)
A common mistake
Confusing introversion with social anxiety, lack of confidence, or inability to communicate. Introverts can be highly articulate and socially skilled; they simply gain energy from solitude rather than group interaction.
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