antisocial

Everyday

1. Behaving in a way that harms or annoys other people in the community, like vandalism or shouting late at night. tree →
2. Not wanting to be with other people; unfriendly or shy of company. tree →

In the lessons

Used in safety and citizenship lessons (antisocial behaviour like graffiti or litter) and in everyday talk for someone who keeps to themselves. It tells the reader someone is not behaving well toward others, or does not want company. Phrases: antisocial behaviour, antisocial hours (work late at night), feeling antisocial.

Examples

• Dropping litter in the park is antisocial behaviour. tree →
• The police were called because of antisocial noise in the street. tree →
• I'm feeling a bit antisocial today, so I'll stay in my room. tree →
• Nurses often work antisocial hours. tree →
• Writing graffiti on walls is antisocial. tree →
• My cat is very antisocial and hides when guests arrive. tree →
• The school talks about how to stop antisocial behaviour. tree →

Note

Can be written antisocial or anti-social. Two meanings: harmful to others, or just not sociable; context tells which. In UK news, "antisocial behaviour" means nuisance crime. Being quiet or shy is not the same as being harmful.