socially uncomfortable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "socially uncomfortable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or feeling that causes discomfort in social interactions or settings. Example: "He often feels socially uncomfortable at large gatherings where he doesn't know many people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

I like the fact that she's dealing with ethnicity and social issues, things that are visceral and socially uncomfortable, in a way that's extremely conceptual and intellectual.

The New York Times - Arts

He was socially uncomfortable".

The New Yorker

A surprising number admit to becoming increasingly "socially uncomfortable" off stage as their career progresses.

The Guardian

Over on the Senate side, Mitch McConnell, an expert floor tactician, seems about as socially uncomfortable as a man can be and still reach the pinnacle of politics.

The New York Times - Magazine

His Aspergers had yet to be diagnosed but he came across as a polite, if somewhat socially uncomfortable, computer geek with a fascination for conspiracy theories and extra-terrestrial life.

Independent

Meetings can be tense, socially uncomfortable, and very often, exceedingly boring.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

According to residents, many of its citizens are socially conservative, uncomfortable with gay marriage and largely opposed to abortion.

Huffington Post

"He was a heavy drinker and uncomfortable, socially awkward and arrogant and definitely peculiar.

The Guardian - Film

In the mostly improvised Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000– ), Seinfeld cocreator Larry David, starring as himself, plumbed the humour of the most socially awkward and uncomfortable situations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He adds that college provides the opportunity to be exposed to experiences that may make students uncomfortable, socially, physically and emotionally.

Huffington Post

It doesn't just mean pissing about on the mixer while a few bored, uncomfortable, socially challenged blokes stand on different parts of the dancefloor, heads down, waiting for another DJ to turn up so they can stand slightly closer to other people on the dancefloor.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "socially uncomfortable" to describe situations or environments that cause unease or anxiety due to social dynamics or expectations. For example, "The conference was socially uncomfortable due to the forced networking events."

Common error

Avoid using "socially uncomfortable" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "awkward", "uneasy", or more descriptive phrases such as "out of place" or "ill at ease" to add nuance and prevent redundancy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "socially uncomfortable" functions as an adjective phrase that typically modifies a noun or pronoun, describing a state or feeling related to social interactions. It indicates a sense of unease, awkwardness, or discomfort experienced within a social context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

21%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "socially uncomfortable" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase to describe feelings of unease or awkwardness in social situations. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is considered usable in written English. It appears most commonly in News & Media, but also in Science and Wiki contexts. While similar phrases like "socially awkward" or "socially uneasy" exist, "socially uncomfortable" provides a distinct nuance, emphasizing the feeling of unease itself. When writing, avoid overuse and consider synonyms for variety. The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal communication, maintaining a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Socially awkward

Focuses on a lack of social skills or ease in social interactions.

Socially uneasy

Highlights a feeling of mild anxiety or apprehension in social contexts.

Uncomfortable in social situations

More descriptive, explicitly stating the context of discomfort.

Ill at ease socially

Emphasizes a lack of comfort or relaxation in social settings.

Socially anxious

Indicates a higher level of anxiety and potential fear in social situations.

Out of place in social settings

Highlights a feeling of not belonging or fitting in socially.

Socially inept

Implies a lack of social competence or skill.

Self-conscious in social interactions

Focuses on awareness and potential anxiety about one's own actions in social situations.

Finding social gatherings daunting

Highlights the intimidating nature of social events for the individual.

Having difficulty socializing

A general statement about problems or challenges in social interactions.

FAQs

What does "socially uncomfortable" mean?

The term "socially uncomfortable" describes a situation or feeling of unease and awkwardness experienced in social settings, often due to unfamiliar dynamics or perceived expectations.

What can I say instead of "socially uncomfortable"?

You can use alternatives like "socially awkward", "socially uneasy", or "ill at ease socially" depending on the specific context.

Is "socially uncomfortable" formal or informal language?

"Socially uncomfortable" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, though synonyms might be preferable in very formal or academic writing.

How do you use "socially uncomfortable" in a sentence?

You can say, "He felt "socially uncomfortable" at the networking event because he didn't know anyone", or, "The silence during dinner was "socially uncomfortable" for everyone at the table".