introverted

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "introverted" is both correct and widely used in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who tends to shy away from the company of others and prefer to be alone. For example, "Mike is an introverted person who often chooses to spend time alone despite his many friends’ invitations to hang out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Provincialism was of his essence and English Midland provincialism at that, than which there is none more introverted.

The Guardian

She seemed introverted and delicate, just the way Hank had come across over Google Hangout.

The Guardian - Tech

But plots need seem reasonable only to the plotters: it is a mark of how febrile and introverted many Labour MPs have become that some names being mooted as successors are virtual unknowns.If so, the Norway debate may offer a final warning.

The Economist

The resulting international joint ventures will change Brazil's previously introverted business world.Iron willCVRD's sale is a landmark because of its political sensitivity.

The Economist

Aloof, slightly introverted and all too obviously lacking the magnetism of his predecessor, Nelson Mandela, he is not a hugely popular politician.

The Economist

Polish foreign policy has been introverted, incompetent and marked by hostility to Germany since the Kaczynskis came to power in late 2005.

The Economist

Mr Erard repeatedly peppers his text with such questions, feeling his way through his story as a thoughtful observer, rather than banging about like an academic with a theory to defend or a pitchman with a technique to sell.Hyperpolyglots are more likely to be introverted than extroverted, which may come as a surprise to some.

The Economist

By contrast, the introverted Michael Atherton, who has just retired from the England captaincy after being in command for a record 52 test matches, seemed to go out of his taciturn way to alienate the media and, by extension, the crowds.

The Economist

According to those who have dealt with them, the FARC are introverted, Stalinist and dogmatic, with little knowledge of the outside world (beyond Hugo Chávez's Venezuela, where several of their leaders took refuge).

The Economist

The agencies are "introverted and arrogant" organisations, he says, which find it hard to understand that many people dislike commercials.

The Economist

He was introverted and clung tenaciously to a few intimates.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "introverted", focus on their preference for solitude and internal reflection, rather than assuming they are simply shy or antisocial.

Common error

Avoid using "introverted" and "shy" interchangeably. Introversion is a personality preference, while shyness is a feeling of social discomfort. An introverted person might enjoy solitude, whereas a shy person might desire company but feel anxious in social situations.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "introverted" primarily functions to describe a person's personality trait, indicating a preference for solitary activities and internal reflection. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and acceptance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

21%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "introverted" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjective to describe individuals who prefer solitary activities and internal reflection. As Ludwig AI also confirms, the word is widely accepted. Usage spans across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications, making it a versatile term. While often confused with shyness, it's crucial to remember that introversion is a preference, not a social anxiety. Consider using related phrases like "reserved" or "self-contained" for nuanced descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reserved

Focuses on a lack of expressiveness or openness in manner.

shy

Emphasizes discomfort and anxiety in social situations.

withdrawn

Highlights a tendency to detach from social interaction.

reclusive

Suggests a preference for seclusion and avoidance of company.

introspective

Focuses on a tendency to examine one's own thoughts and feelings.

self-contained

Implies independence and a lack of need for external validation.

reticent

Highlights a disinclination to speak freely or openly.

unassertive

Emphasizes a lack of confidence or willingness to express oneself.

taciturn

Indicates a habitual silence or reserve in speech.

contemplative

Focuses on a tendency toward deep thought and reflection.

FAQs

How can I use "introverted" in a sentence?

You can use "introverted" to describe someone who prefers spending time alone or in small groups and gains energy from solitude. For example, "She is an "introverted" person who enjoys reading in her free time."

What's the difference between "introverted" and "extroverted"?

"Introverted" describes someone who gains energy from spending time alone, while "extroverted" describes someone who gains energy from being around others.

What can I say instead of "introverted"?

You can use alternatives like "reserved", "withdrawn", or "self-contained" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say someone is "introverted"?

Yes, it is correct. "Introverted" is a widely accepted term in psychology and general usage to describe a personality type.