uncommunicative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "uncommunicative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is not willing to communicate or share information. Example: "Despite the team's efforts to engage him, he remained uncommunicative during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My favourite performance is in a lesser-known film, Hope Springs, in which she plays half of a couple going through marriage counselling (Tommy Lee Jones is inflexible and uncommunicative; she's a people-pleaser who's shrunk during their life together).

The Guardian - Film

We found this even when patients felt they were suffering delusions or were closed down and uncommunicative.

The Guardian

She has unveiled few policy plans and held few rallies.But she is a better public speaker than Mr Kirchner, feisty and articulate where he is awkward and uncommunicative.

The Economist

Though by now immobile and uncommunicative, Lorenzo lived.

The Economist

Although his pre-Katrina efforts to clean up city government were popular with voters, turnover was high among his top staffers, and other officials complained that his administration was uncommunicative and erratic.The mayor's casual, unscripted style, which once endeared him to voters, has not worn as well with flooded-out folk facing ruin.

The Economist

That it is so uncommunicative may simply be due to the fact that it is so new.

The Economist

According to Paul Mellon, in his memoir "Reflections in a Silver Spoon", his father Andrew entered adulthood as a "thin-voiced, thin-bodied, shy and uncommunicative man".

The Economist

BEHIND the uncommunicative doors of Tehran's Revolutionary Court, Iran is holding its biggest political trial since the early days of its 1979 Islamic revolution.

The Economist

Much psychiatric medicine is undramatic stuff, involving the prescription of drugs to uncommunicative patients.

The Economist

The man ranked second, Marcelo Rios from Chile, although gifted, is famously uncommunicative.

The Economist

But it was evident, for example, that a citizen of Sparta was much more apt to be tough and unreflective (and certainly uncommunicative) than a citizen of Corinth (with its notorious openness to pleasure and luxury).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "uncommunicative", provide context to clarify the reason for their lack of communication. Is it due to shyness, anger, or a specific condition?

Common error

Avoid assuming malicious intent when someone is "uncommunicative". Consider that they may be processing information or simply need time to formulate their thoughts.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "uncommunicative" primarily functions to describe a state or characteristic of a person, entity, or action that is marked by a lack of willingness or ability to convey information. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which indicates its use in characterizing individuals and administrations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "uncommunicative" is a versatile adjective used to describe a lack of willingness or ability to communicate. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples reveals that it is grammatically sound and frequently employed in News & Media contexts. While several alternatives exist, such as "reserved" and "taciturn", the best choice depends on the specific nuance intended. When using the term, consider the context and potential reasons behind someone's silence to avoid misinterpretations. As Ludwig AI confirms, "uncommunicative" is a valid and useful term when applied thoughtfully.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Reserved

Focuses on a deliberate withholding of expression or information.

Taciturn

Emphasizes a habitual disinclination to talk.

Tight-lipped

Suggests a deliberate refusal to divulge information.

Reticent

Highlights a reluctance to speak freely due to shyness or caution.

Close-mouthed

Emphasizes secrecy and a refusal to share information.

Silent

Indicates a complete absence of verbal communication.

Inexpressive

Implies a lack of outward display of emotions or thoughts.

Withdrawn

Suggests emotional detachment and a lack of engagement with others.

Aloof

Highlights a distant and detached demeanor.

Introverted

Describes a preference for solitary activities and a reserved communication style.

FAQs

How can I use "uncommunicative" in a sentence?

You can use "uncommunicative" to describe someone who is unwilling or unable to share information or engage in conversation. For example, "The witness was "uncommunicative" during the interrogation."

What are some synonyms for "uncommunicative"?

Alternatives to "uncommunicative" include "reserved", "taciturn", or "reticent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "uncommunicative" or "incommunicative"?

Both "uncommunicative" and "incommunicative" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Uncommunicative" might be slightly more common in contemporary usage, but the choice often depends on stylistic preference.

When is it appropriate to describe someone as "uncommunicative"?

It's appropriate to use "uncommunicative" when someone consistently avoids or struggles with sharing information or engaging in conversation, particularly when communication is expected or necessary.