# antisocial

/ˌæntaɪˈsoʊʃəɫ/ (US) · /ˌæntɪsˈəʊʃəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/antisocial
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

not wanting to spend time with other people or behaving in a way that is annoying or harmful to others.

For teachers: unwilling or unable to associate in a normal or friendly way with other people; also describes behavior that violates social norms or harms the community.

## Examples

- He feels a bit antisocial today and wants to stay home.
- The local council introduced new rules to stop antisocial behavior like loud music and littering in the park.
- While some view his preference for solitude as merely introverted, others argue that his refusal to participate in any community events is intentionally antisocial.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be', 'feel', or 'become'; can also be used attributively to describe specific behaviors.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.