‘Extrovert’ vs ‘Introvert’: What’s the Difference?

Are you looking for the difference between 'extrovert' vs. 'introvert?'

Here is the short answer: 

• 'Extrovert' is a noun or an adjective for an outgoing person who enjoys being around and interacting with other people.
• 'Introvert' is a noun or adjective for someone who prefers to spend time alone and interact with small groups of people that they know well. 

Similar-sounding words like these confuse many people. The best way to ensure you will remember the difference is through repetition and seeing the words in use. Plus, this post has some interesting facts about 'introverts' and 'extroverts.' So, keep reading!

What is the Difference Between 'Extrovert' vs. 'Introvert?'

'Extrovert' and 'introvert' are both adjectives and nouns. You use them to describe people. However, they are antonyms, which means they are opposites.

• The first term means that someone is outgoing. They usually have a lot of friends and make friends easily. Instead of spending time at home, they enjoy being in public places, going to parties, and events where they can converse with and meet new people.
• On the other hand, 'introverts' prefer to be alone. They may spend more time at home than in social settings. Their circle of friends is usually small and tight-knit.

There is a common myth that introverts suffer from agoraphobia, a fear or hatred of going to public places or being around people. However, that is not always the case, and there are actually 'extroverts' who suffer from agoraphobia.

When to Use 'Extrovert' vs. 'Introvert'

These terms can be confusing. So, here are some tips for using 'extrovert' vs. 'introvert.' 

• Use 'extrovert' as an adjective to describe someone outgoing and friendly.

For example, you could say:

He was an extrovert. He talked to everyone he met and never met anyone who wasn't his friend.

• Use 'extrovert' as a noun for someone who enjoys making new friends.

So, you could say:

Did you meet the extrovert at the party? She was so bubbly. Everyone loved her!

• Use 'introvert' as an adjective to describe a reserved, quiet person.

As an example, I might say:

She was introverted when she arrived at camp and spent most of her time there in her cabin. 

• Use 'introvert' as a noun for someone who spends more time alone than with other people or who is quiet around others.

For example, you could say:

The introvert stayed in her room the entire trip. We never even saw her. 

Definition of 'Extrovert': What is the Meaning of 'Extrovert?'

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the adjective 'extrovert' means:

• Having an extroverted nature

It can also be a noun defined as:

• A person who is characterized by extrovert behavior
• A gregarious person who seeks out social interaction
• An unreserved person who enjoys being with other people
• Someone who likes to meet new people in social situations

Synonyms and Similar Words to Extrovert

• Exhibitionist
• Bold
• Outgoing
• Backslapper
• Show-off
• Social butterfly

Definition of 'Introvert': What is the Meaning of 'Introvert?'

The same source defines the adjective 'introvert' as:

• To turn inward or prefer to spend time alone
• To concentrate on oneself rather than others
• To cause something to become introverted

It can also be a noun meaning:

• A person whose personality is introverted
• A typically quiet and reserved person who prefers to spend time alone
• Someone who tends to be introspective

Synonyms and Similar Words to Introvert

• Mouse
• Wallflower
• Shrinking violet
• Icicle
• Cold fish
• Iceberg

Pronunciation: How to Pronounce 'Extrovert' vs. 'Introvert'

Now that you know the difference in the definitions and how to use these words, let's look at the pronunciation of 'extrovert' vs. 'introvert.'

Here is a pronunciation guide.

• Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'extrovert':

ex-trah-vert

• Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'introvert':

in-trah-vert

As you can see, the o in both terms is pronounced more like ah than o, and aside from the prefixes ex and in, respectively, these terms have the same pronunciation.

Sample Sentences Using 'Extrovert' vs. 'Introvert'

Before you go, read these sample sentences using 'extrovert' vs. 'introvert.' They will help you remember the meaning of these words and how to use them.

Extrovert

• The cheerleaders are all extroverts. They were always at a party or hosting events to raise money for the senior trip.
• I love your extroverted personality. It pushes me to be more adventurous.
• I need to make friends with more extroverts who are always ready to go to a party or social gathering.
• The extroverts were a match made in heaven. They were always traveling and going to new places together.

Introvert

• Don't be such an introvert. Sometimes, it is important to get out of the house and do new things.
• She has been such an introvert lately, and the last time I tried to make her leave the house, she almost had a nervous breakdown.
• There is a common misconception that introverts are all crazy cat people.
• Many introverts are introspective individuals who prefer to spend time focusing on themselves.

Extrovert/Introvert

• All of the cheerleaders were extroverted social butterflies except Jill. She was an introvert who loved reading books.
• It is so strange that, in high school, I was an extrovert, but now I am an introvert.
• It is always a good idea to push yourself out of your comfort zone. If you are an extrovert, try spending more time at home, and if you are an introvert, go to more social gatherings.
• It is so interesting that there can be introverts and extroverts in the same family.

Final Look at the Difference Between 'Extrovert' vs. 'Introvert'

Finally, let's take a last look at the difference between 'extrovert' vs. 'introvert':

• 'Extrovert' is an adjective or noun used for a person who enjoys social settings and meeting new people. 
• 'Introvert' is an adjective or noun used for someone who prefers to spend time alone or in small settings or a person who is quiet and reserved. 

You should be an expert on the difference between these terms now, but if you ever get mixed up, you can always return to this post for a quick review of this lesson.

You can also verify the meanings of other commonly misused words in the confusing words section here. Each guide contains definitions, pronunciations, examples, and tips to help you learn and remember the meanings and uses of the words.