Meaning & use
standoffish
Last updated
UK/ˌstændˈɒfɪʃ/
US/ˌstændˈɔːfɪʃ/
Meaning
adjectivecomparable
Not friendly or sociable; distant and reserved in manner.
Grammar: Can be used before a noun or after a linking verb: 'a standoffish person' or 'He seems standoffish.'
Patterns
- seem standoffish
- a standoffish person
The new neighbor seemed standoffish at first, but she was just shy.
His standoffish attitude made it hard to get to know him.
Word forms
| comparative | more standoffish |
|---|---|
| superlative | most standoffish |
Common combinations
- seem standoffish
- She seems standoffish until you get to know her.
- a bit standoffish
- He can be a bit standoffish with strangers.
- come across as standoffish
- I hope I didn't come across as standoffish at the party.
Synonyms and how they differ
- aloof
- Aloof suggests a deliberate emotional distance; standoffish often describes a cold manner that may not be intentional.
- distant
- Distant can mean physically far or emotionally cold; standoffish is only about social coldness.
- reserved
- Reserved is milder and often positive, meaning quiet and not showing feelings; standoffish is more negative.
Opposites
Word family
- standoff noun
- A situation where no progress is made because two sides oppose each other.
Practice
What does 'standoffish' mean?
Choose one answer.
Standoffish means cold or reserved in manner, not friendly. It does not mean physically standing far away.
Make it your own
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