Stand-offish

Characterized by aloofness or distance in one's interactions, indicating a reluctance to engage in friendly or open communication. stand-offish individuals often appear reserved, formal, and difficult to approach, potentially due to shyness, social anxiety, or a general preference for solitude. This behavior can create a perception of coldness, disinterest, or even superiority in social settings. While not necessarily malicious, stand-offishness can hinder the formation of close relationships and impede effective teamwork or collaboration, as individuals may avoid initiating contact or sharing personal information. It is crucial to note that this behavior is often a protective mechanism, not a deliberate attempt to be unkind.

Stand-offish meaning with examples

• Despite being the new intern, Sarah remained stand-offish, declining invitations to join her colleagues for lunch, making her appear unapproachable. This, ultimately, made her work life lonely. Even during team projects, she'd keep her distance, preferring solo assignments, which hampered collaboration efforts and affected her ability to connect with the team.
• The reclusive writer became stand-offish after experiencing a public betrayal, retreating from social gatherings and declining interviews. This new found persona isolated him from his friends and fans. He built walls and barricades. He prioritized writing over connections, sacrificing his social life for artistic expression.
• Mark was considered stand-offish at his new school, rarely participating in class discussions or group activities. His peers often felt excluded by him. Students found him uninviting and hesitant. His quiet demeanor led some to perceive him as arrogant, impacting his ability to make friends and integrate socially.
• The CEO, known for his stand-offish manner, preferred formal communication and avoided informal interactions with employees, which made employees hesitant to communicate. He maintained an aloof demeanor, discouraging casual conversation. This created a sense of distance and hindered the development of a positive and supportive work environment.
• After a heated argument, she became stand-offish towards her friend, avoiding phone calls and canceling plans. This caused friction within their long-term relationship. She refused to explain herself, choosing silence over communication. The estrangement slowly withered their friendship and damaged her reputation.