Level 5

내성적

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Meaning and Usage

The adjective '내성적' describes someone who is introverted or reserved. It often refers to people who are quiet, shy, or prefer solitude over socializing. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe personality traits.

Common Contexts

You will hear '내성적' when talking about personality in social, educational, or workplace settings. It often contrasts with '외향적' (extroverted).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 내성적이다: to be introverted
  • 내성적인 사람: an introverted person
  • 내성적인 성격: an introverted personality

These collocations help express the degree or nature of introversion.

Register and Nuance

'내성적' is neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. It is not a negative term but can imply shyness or quietness.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '내성적' with '소극적' (passive). While both can describe reserved behavior, '소극적' often implies reluctance or passivity, whereas '내성적' focuses on introversion or inwardness.

Example Sentences

그는 내성적이라서 처음 만난 사람과 대화하기 어려워해요.

Geuneun naeseongjeogiraseo cheoeum mannan saramgwa daehwahagi eoryeowohhaeyo.

He is introverted, so he finds it difficult to talk with people he meets for the first time.

내성적인 사람들은 보통 조용하고 신중한 편이에요.

Naeseongjeogin saramdeureun botong joyonghago sinjunghan pyeonieyo.

Introverted people are usually quiet and cautious.

내성적인 성격 때문에 모임에서 잘 어울리지 못할 때가 있어요.

Naeseongjeogin seonggyeok ttaemune moimeseo jal eoulliji mothal ttaega isseoyo.

Because of an introverted personality, sometimes I can't fit in well at gatherings.