What word best describes someone who likes to do everything on his own? [closed]Is there a word for someone who has a flaw?What do you call someone who is so inappropriate that they are appropriate?A person who criticizes his own homeland/city/country?A word for someone who sarcastically exaggerates your superiority?Word or phrase for one who tries to benefit from everything someone else doesWhat do you call a person who says sweet things about person to win his favors?Term for someone who leaves a relationship after the other person buys them a bunch of stuffWord for someone who dismisses contrary opinions as irrational?Someone who thinks they can do everything but they can'tLooking for a word to describe someone who feels or believes he or she is too good for any improvement
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What word best describes someone who likes to do everything on his own? [closed]
Is there a word for someone who has a flaw?What do you call someone who is so inappropriate that they are appropriate?A person who criticizes his own homeland/city/country?A word for someone who sarcastically exaggerates your superiority?Word or phrase for one who tries to benefit from everything someone else doesWhat do you call a person who says sweet things about person to win his favors?Term for someone who leaves a relationship after the other person buys them a bunch of stuffWord for someone who dismisses contrary opinions as irrational?Someone who thinks they can do everything but they can'tLooking for a word to describe someone who feels or believes he or she is too good for any improvement
.everyoneloves__top-leaderboard:empty,.everyoneloves__mid-leaderboard:empty,.everyoneloves__bot-mid-leaderboard:empty margin-bottom:0;
This doesn’t mean that they are unsociable or always keep everything secret. They just love to do things by themselves to feel as if they don’t need anyone else doing this for them. Is there any word or phrase that can interpret this full meaning?
single-word-requests phrase-requests
closed as off-topic by Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist♦ Aug 8 at 10:29
This question appears to be off-topic. The users who voted to close gave this specific reason:
- "Questions on choosing an ideal word or phrase must include information on how it will be used in order to be answered. For help writing a good word or phrase request, see: About single word requests" – Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist
|
show 3 more comments
This doesn’t mean that they are unsociable or always keep everything secret. They just love to do things by themselves to feel as if they don’t need anyone else doing this for them. Is there any word or phrase that can interpret this full meaning?
single-word-requests phrase-requests
closed as off-topic by Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist♦ Aug 8 at 10:29
This question appears to be off-topic. The users who voted to close gave this specific reason:
- "Questions on choosing an ideal word or phrase must include information on how it will be used in order to be answered. For help writing a good word or phrase request, see: About single word requests" – Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist
So .. this is the guy who just drives around instead of stopping to ask for directions?
– GEdgar
Aug 7 at 13:22
Well...it’s more like he wants to do these things to prove that he can do anything within his power. If it’s out of reach, like when he gets lost, he can ask for help.
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 13:49
A lone wolf is one who generally operates alone (paraphrasing OED def. 1.c), but it's been used alongside criminals/terrorists a lot lately, so I'd keep that in mind when determining usage.
– cmcf
Aug 7 at 15:17
@valerie I was going to suggest hermit or recluse but it sounds like you're just describing pretty normal behavior.
– sas08
Aug 7 at 15:57
1
I liked this question (and not just because I know someone just like this and how I would describe them...). Imo the OP should have been asked to give an example sentence before closing.
– S Conroy
Aug 8 at 13:01
|
show 3 more comments
This doesn’t mean that they are unsociable or always keep everything secret. They just love to do things by themselves to feel as if they don’t need anyone else doing this for them. Is there any word or phrase that can interpret this full meaning?
single-word-requests phrase-requests
This doesn’t mean that they are unsociable or always keep everything secret. They just love to do things by themselves to feel as if they don’t need anyone else doing this for them. Is there any word or phrase that can interpret this full meaning?
single-word-requests phrase-requests
single-word-requests phrase-requests
asked Aug 7 at 12:56
ValerieValerie
465 bronze badges
465 bronze badges
closed as off-topic by Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist♦ Aug 8 at 10:29
This question appears to be off-topic. The users who voted to close gave this specific reason:
- "Questions on choosing an ideal word or phrase must include information on how it will be used in order to be answered. For help writing a good word or phrase request, see: About single word requests" – Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist
closed as off-topic by Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist♦ Aug 8 at 10:29
This question appears to be off-topic. The users who voted to close gave this specific reason:
- "Questions on choosing an ideal word or phrase must include information on how it will be used in order to be answered. For help writing a good word or phrase request, see: About single word requests" – Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist
closed as off-topic by Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist♦ Aug 8 at 10:29
This question appears to be off-topic. The users who voted to close gave this specific reason:
- "Questions on choosing an ideal word or phrase must include information on how it will be used in order to be answered. For help writing a good word or phrase request, see: About single word requests" – Chappo, jimm101, Cascabel, curiousdannii, tchrist
So .. this is the guy who just drives around instead of stopping to ask for directions?
– GEdgar
Aug 7 at 13:22
Well...it’s more like he wants to do these things to prove that he can do anything within his power. If it’s out of reach, like when he gets lost, he can ask for help.
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 13:49
A lone wolf is one who generally operates alone (paraphrasing OED def. 1.c), but it's been used alongside criminals/terrorists a lot lately, so I'd keep that in mind when determining usage.
– cmcf
Aug 7 at 15:17
@valerie I was going to suggest hermit or recluse but it sounds like you're just describing pretty normal behavior.
– sas08
Aug 7 at 15:57
1
I liked this question (and not just because I know someone just like this and how I would describe them...). Imo the OP should have been asked to give an example sentence before closing.
– S Conroy
Aug 8 at 13:01
|
show 3 more comments
So .. this is the guy who just drives around instead of stopping to ask for directions?
– GEdgar
Aug 7 at 13:22
Well...it’s more like he wants to do these things to prove that he can do anything within his power. If it’s out of reach, like when he gets lost, he can ask for help.
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 13:49
A lone wolf is one who generally operates alone (paraphrasing OED def. 1.c), but it's been used alongside criminals/terrorists a lot lately, so I'd keep that in mind when determining usage.
– cmcf
Aug 7 at 15:17
@valerie I was going to suggest hermit or recluse but it sounds like you're just describing pretty normal behavior.
– sas08
Aug 7 at 15:57
1
I liked this question (and not just because I know someone just like this and how I would describe them...). Imo the OP should have been asked to give an example sentence before closing.
– S Conroy
Aug 8 at 13:01
So .. this is the guy who just drives around instead of stopping to ask for directions?
– GEdgar
Aug 7 at 13:22
So .. this is the guy who just drives around instead of stopping to ask for directions?
– GEdgar
Aug 7 at 13:22
Well...it’s more like he wants to do these things to prove that he can do anything within his power. If it’s out of reach, like when he gets lost, he can ask for help.
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 13:49
Well...it’s more like he wants to do these things to prove that he can do anything within his power. If it’s out of reach, like when he gets lost, he can ask for help.
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 13:49
A lone wolf is one who generally operates alone (paraphrasing OED def. 1.c), but it's been used alongside criminals/terrorists a lot lately, so I'd keep that in mind when determining usage.
– cmcf
Aug 7 at 15:17
A lone wolf is one who generally operates alone (paraphrasing OED def. 1.c), but it's been used alongside criminals/terrorists a lot lately, so I'd keep that in mind when determining usage.
– cmcf
Aug 7 at 15:17
@valerie I was going to suggest hermit or recluse but it sounds like you're just describing pretty normal behavior.
– sas08
Aug 7 at 15:57
@valerie I was going to suggest hermit or recluse but it sounds like you're just describing pretty normal behavior.
– sas08
Aug 7 at 15:57
1
1
I liked this question (and not just because I know someone just like this and how I would describe them...). Imo the OP should have been asked to give an example sentence before closing.
– S Conroy
Aug 8 at 13:01
I liked this question (and not just because I know someone just like this and how I would describe them...). Imo the OP should have been asked to give an example sentence before closing.
– S Conroy
Aug 8 at 13:01
|
show 3 more comments
7 Answers
7
active
oldest
votes
Self-sufficient has the connotations of not needing others.
Especially in the second meaning from Dictionary:
having extreme confidence in one's own resources, powers, etc.
He was
self-sufficient, and always reminded you of it.
7
Or self-reliant.
– Mitch
Aug 7 at 21:03
add a comment |
The word independent comes to mind. It has the positive connotation of being solitary without malice.
Selected meanings from Merriam Webster:
not dependent: such as
a. (1) not subject to control by others : SELF-GOVERNING
b. (2) not looking to others for one's opinions or for guidance in conduct
c. (1) not requiring or relying on others (as for care or livelihood):
independent of her parents
d. showing a desire for freedom:
an independent manner
Thanks for the word! It seems to nearly fully describe what I mean. Still, the way he likes to show off his skill, like, he can do anything without help, is what I want to figure out. Anyway, the word still works. Thanks again!
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 14:11
1
@SciGuy, as you're relatively new to our site, I added a definition for you. Please be aware that a 16-word one-line answer – especially one that offers no independent supporting evidence to distinguish it from mere personal opinion – not only risks receiving downvotes but will end up in the Low Quality Posts queue to be reviewed for deletion, whereas putting in the extra effort (e.g. with a relevant dictionary definition & link) will often be rewarded by multiple upvotes, as you've now received. I hope this encourages you to post further well-supported answers :-)
– Chappo
Aug 9 at 9:32
add a comment |
It was said:
to feel as if they don’t need anyone else doing this for them
The word autonomous conveys a subtle meaning of rebelling against other people's influence or making a particular statement about being self-sufficient:
[Merriam-Webster]
1 a : having the right or power of self-government
// an autonomous territory
1 b : undertaken or carried on without outside control : SELF-CONTAINED
// an autonomous school system
2 a : existing or capable of existing independently
// an autonomous zooid
2 b : responding, reacting, or developing independently of the whole
// an autonomous growth
Although autonomous is often synonymous with independent, it is not quite as neutral a word; it conveys more of an intention of deliberately breaking away and proving yourself. (The first sense implies it is a right, not just a description of a state of affairs.)
add a comment |
According to the Collins dictionary, a lone wolf is:
someone who is independent and likes doing things on their own, rather than doing them with other people.
"Lone wolf" is also more narrow and unambiguous in its meaning than similar phrases like "independent", which has 22 different definitions on Dictionary.com. Generally "lone wolf" is only used to describe a person or a literal lone wolf.
The Columbia Journalism Review has a really nice article on the origin of the phrase and its connotations through history. For instance:
Not unexpectedly, Native Americans had some legendary chiefs or warriors named “Lone Wolf,” though, as members of tribal communities, they were not really “lone wolves.” (Paraphrased from Ben Zimmer's The Wall Street Journal article)
This example highlights how even the "lone wolves" mentioned weren't complete hermits, either. Rather, they were people renowned for their competence in acting alone while still integrating with their respective communities.
add a comment |
Self-actualizing or perhaps self-reliant are compounds which might serve. Most words for this are negative, so you might have to soften.
Slightly-reclusive.
A bit of a hermit. That sort of thing.
I think she's asking for an English word.
– David
Aug 7 at 20:33
How negative are they? As I look up and find they are not disapproving; here I mean two words ‘self-actualizing’ and ‘self-reliant’.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:08
add a comment |
Loner comes to mind.
loner noun
lon·er | ˈlō-nər
1 : one that avoids others: such as
- a : a person who is often alone or likes to be alone : someone who usually avoids the company of others
From the Merriam Webster dictionary:
He is a moody loner who doesn't become chummy with anyone.
— Sam Moses Many
rowers will agree that sculling is a sport for loners who relish the more quixotic elements of the sport.
— D. C. Churbuck
… she found that the image of the scientist as an antisocial loner is a myth …
— Warren E. Leary
It does often have a slight antisocial connotation, but isn't derogatory at all. Mainly, a loner just likes to do things by themselves.
Well he doesn’t like to be alone.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:09
1
Fair enough. I find this definition a bit strict, in fact: to me, a loner may not even actively avoid others as implied in the definition quoted, but might just prefer doing things by themselves. That said, I do like some of the other suggestions on this page too; just felt that this one was worth bringing up too!
– Cullub
Aug 8 at 2:14
add a comment |
Several such words exist whereof "independent," "self-sufficient," and "self-reliant" are all examples.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
2
Please include references to back up the claim.
– marcellothearcane
Aug 8 at 6:47
add a comment |
7 Answers
7
active
oldest
votes
7 Answers
7
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
Self-sufficient has the connotations of not needing others.
Especially in the second meaning from Dictionary:
having extreme confidence in one's own resources, powers, etc.
He was
self-sufficient, and always reminded you of it.
7
Or self-reliant.
– Mitch
Aug 7 at 21:03
add a comment |
Self-sufficient has the connotations of not needing others.
Especially in the second meaning from Dictionary:
having extreme confidence in one's own resources, powers, etc.
He was
self-sufficient, and always reminded you of it.
7
Or self-reliant.
– Mitch
Aug 7 at 21:03
add a comment |
Self-sufficient has the connotations of not needing others.
Especially in the second meaning from Dictionary:
having extreme confidence in one's own resources, powers, etc.
He was
self-sufficient, and always reminded you of it.
Self-sufficient has the connotations of not needing others.
Especially in the second meaning from Dictionary:
having extreme confidence in one's own resources, powers, etc.
He was
self-sufficient, and always reminded you of it.
edited Aug 7 at 19:59
answered Aug 7 at 15:33
S ConroyS Conroy
4,8091 gold badge8 silver badges32 bronze badges
4,8091 gold badge8 silver badges32 bronze badges
7
Or self-reliant.
– Mitch
Aug 7 at 21:03
add a comment |
7
Or self-reliant.
– Mitch
Aug 7 at 21:03
7
7
Or self-reliant.
– Mitch
Aug 7 at 21:03
Or self-reliant.
– Mitch
Aug 7 at 21:03
add a comment |
The word independent comes to mind. It has the positive connotation of being solitary without malice.
Selected meanings from Merriam Webster:
not dependent: such as
a. (1) not subject to control by others : SELF-GOVERNING
b. (2) not looking to others for one's opinions or for guidance in conduct
c. (1) not requiring or relying on others (as for care or livelihood):
independent of her parents
d. showing a desire for freedom:
an independent manner
Thanks for the word! It seems to nearly fully describe what I mean. Still, the way he likes to show off his skill, like, he can do anything without help, is what I want to figure out. Anyway, the word still works. Thanks again!
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 14:11
1
@SciGuy, as you're relatively new to our site, I added a definition for you. Please be aware that a 16-word one-line answer – especially one that offers no independent supporting evidence to distinguish it from mere personal opinion – not only risks receiving downvotes but will end up in the Low Quality Posts queue to be reviewed for deletion, whereas putting in the extra effort (e.g. with a relevant dictionary definition & link) will often be rewarded by multiple upvotes, as you've now received. I hope this encourages you to post further well-supported answers :-)
– Chappo
Aug 9 at 9:32
add a comment |
The word independent comes to mind. It has the positive connotation of being solitary without malice.
Selected meanings from Merriam Webster:
not dependent: such as
a. (1) not subject to control by others : SELF-GOVERNING
b. (2) not looking to others for one's opinions or for guidance in conduct
c. (1) not requiring or relying on others (as for care or livelihood):
independent of her parents
d. showing a desire for freedom:
an independent manner
Thanks for the word! It seems to nearly fully describe what I mean. Still, the way he likes to show off his skill, like, he can do anything without help, is what I want to figure out. Anyway, the word still works. Thanks again!
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 14:11
1
@SciGuy, as you're relatively new to our site, I added a definition for you. Please be aware that a 16-word one-line answer – especially one that offers no independent supporting evidence to distinguish it from mere personal opinion – not only risks receiving downvotes but will end up in the Low Quality Posts queue to be reviewed for deletion, whereas putting in the extra effort (e.g. with a relevant dictionary definition & link) will often be rewarded by multiple upvotes, as you've now received. I hope this encourages you to post further well-supported answers :-)
– Chappo
Aug 9 at 9:32
add a comment |
The word independent comes to mind. It has the positive connotation of being solitary without malice.
Selected meanings from Merriam Webster:
not dependent: such as
a. (1) not subject to control by others : SELF-GOVERNING
b. (2) not looking to others for one's opinions or for guidance in conduct
c. (1) not requiring or relying on others (as for care or livelihood):
independent of her parents
d. showing a desire for freedom:
an independent manner
The word independent comes to mind. It has the positive connotation of being solitary without malice.
Selected meanings from Merriam Webster:
not dependent: such as
a. (1) not subject to control by others : SELF-GOVERNING
b. (2) not looking to others for one's opinions or for guidance in conduct
c. (1) not requiring or relying on others (as for care or livelihood):
independent of her parents
d. showing a desire for freedom:
an independent manner
edited Aug 7 at 13:35
Chappo
3,2946 gold badges17 silver badges29 bronze badges
3,2946 gold badges17 silver badges29 bronze badges
answered Aug 7 at 13:06
SciGuySciGuy
2004 bronze badges
2004 bronze badges
Thanks for the word! It seems to nearly fully describe what I mean. Still, the way he likes to show off his skill, like, he can do anything without help, is what I want to figure out. Anyway, the word still works. Thanks again!
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 14:11
1
@SciGuy, as you're relatively new to our site, I added a definition for you. Please be aware that a 16-word one-line answer – especially one that offers no independent supporting evidence to distinguish it from mere personal opinion – not only risks receiving downvotes but will end up in the Low Quality Posts queue to be reviewed for deletion, whereas putting in the extra effort (e.g. with a relevant dictionary definition & link) will often be rewarded by multiple upvotes, as you've now received. I hope this encourages you to post further well-supported answers :-)
– Chappo
Aug 9 at 9:32
add a comment |
Thanks for the word! It seems to nearly fully describe what I mean. Still, the way he likes to show off his skill, like, he can do anything without help, is what I want to figure out. Anyway, the word still works. Thanks again!
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 14:11
1
@SciGuy, as you're relatively new to our site, I added a definition for you. Please be aware that a 16-word one-line answer – especially one that offers no independent supporting evidence to distinguish it from mere personal opinion – not only risks receiving downvotes but will end up in the Low Quality Posts queue to be reviewed for deletion, whereas putting in the extra effort (e.g. with a relevant dictionary definition & link) will often be rewarded by multiple upvotes, as you've now received. I hope this encourages you to post further well-supported answers :-)
– Chappo
Aug 9 at 9:32
Thanks for the word! It seems to nearly fully describe what I mean. Still, the way he likes to show off his skill, like, he can do anything without help, is what I want to figure out. Anyway, the word still works. Thanks again!
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 14:11
Thanks for the word! It seems to nearly fully describe what I mean. Still, the way he likes to show off his skill, like, he can do anything without help, is what I want to figure out. Anyway, the word still works. Thanks again!
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 14:11
1
1
@SciGuy, as you're relatively new to our site, I added a definition for you. Please be aware that a 16-word one-line answer – especially one that offers no independent supporting evidence to distinguish it from mere personal opinion – not only risks receiving downvotes but will end up in the Low Quality Posts queue to be reviewed for deletion, whereas putting in the extra effort (e.g. with a relevant dictionary definition & link) will often be rewarded by multiple upvotes, as you've now received. I hope this encourages you to post further well-supported answers :-)
– Chappo
Aug 9 at 9:32
@SciGuy, as you're relatively new to our site, I added a definition for you. Please be aware that a 16-word one-line answer – especially one that offers no independent supporting evidence to distinguish it from mere personal opinion – not only risks receiving downvotes but will end up in the Low Quality Posts queue to be reviewed for deletion, whereas putting in the extra effort (e.g. with a relevant dictionary definition & link) will often be rewarded by multiple upvotes, as you've now received. I hope this encourages you to post further well-supported answers :-)
– Chappo
Aug 9 at 9:32
add a comment |
It was said:
to feel as if they don’t need anyone else doing this for them
The word autonomous conveys a subtle meaning of rebelling against other people's influence or making a particular statement about being self-sufficient:
[Merriam-Webster]
1 a : having the right or power of self-government
// an autonomous territory
1 b : undertaken or carried on without outside control : SELF-CONTAINED
// an autonomous school system
2 a : existing or capable of existing independently
// an autonomous zooid
2 b : responding, reacting, or developing independently of the whole
// an autonomous growth
Although autonomous is often synonymous with independent, it is not quite as neutral a word; it conveys more of an intention of deliberately breaking away and proving yourself. (The first sense implies it is a right, not just a description of a state of affairs.)
add a comment |
It was said:
to feel as if they don’t need anyone else doing this for them
The word autonomous conveys a subtle meaning of rebelling against other people's influence or making a particular statement about being self-sufficient:
[Merriam-Webster]
1 a : having the right or power of self-government
// an autonomous territory
1 b : undertaken or carried on without outside control : SELF-CONTAINED
// an autonomous school system
2 a : existing or capable of existing independently
// an autonomous zooid
2 b : responding, reacting, or developing independently of the whole
// an autonomous growth
Although autonomous is often synonymous with independent, it is not quite as neutral a word; it conveys more of an intention of deliberately breaking away and proving yourself. (The first sense implies it is a right, not just a description of a state of affairs.)
add a comment |
It was said:
to feel as if they don’t need anyone else doing this for them
The word autonomous conveys a subtle meaning of rebelling against other people's influence or making a particular statement about being self-sufficient:
[Merriam-Webster]
1 a : having the right or power of self-government
// an autonomous territory
1 b : undertaken or carried on without outside control : SELF-CONTAINED
// an autonomous school system
2 a : existing or capable of existing independently
// an autonomous zooid
2 b : responding, reacting, or developing independently of the whole
// an autonomous growth
Although autonomous is often synonymous with independent, it is not quite as neutral a word; it conveys more of an intention of deliberately breaking away and proving yourself. (The first sense implies it is a right, not just a description of a state of affairs.)
It was said:
to feel as if they don’t need anyone else doing this for them
The word autonomous conveys a subtle meaning of rebelling against other people's influence or making a particular statement about being self-sufficient:
[Merriam-Webster]
1 a : having the right or power of self-government
// an autonomous territory
1 b : undertaken or carried on without outside control : SELF-CONTAINED
// an autonomous school system
2 a : existing or capable of existing independently
// an autonomous zooid
2 b : responding, reacting, or developing independently of the whole
// an autonomous growth
Although autonomous is often synonymous with independent, it is not quite as neutral a word; it conveys more of an intention of deliberately breaking away and proving yourself. (The first sense implies it is a right, not just a description of a state of affairs.)
answered Aug 7 at 14:36
Jason BassfordJason Bassford
26.8k3 gold badges35 silver badges66 bronze badges
26.8k3 gold badges35 silver badges66 bronze badges
add a comment |
add a comment |
According to the Collins dictionary, a lone wolf is:
someone who is independent and likes doing things on their own, rather than doing them with other people.
"Lone wolf" is also more narrow and unambiguous in its meaning than similar phrases like "independent", which has 22 different definitions on Dictionary.com. Generally "lone wolf" is only used to describe a person or a literal lone wolf.
The Columbia Journalism Review has a really nice article on the origin of the phrase and its connotations through history. For instance:
Not unexpectedly, Native Americans had some legendary chiefs or warriors named “Lone Wolf,” though, as members of tribal communities, they were not really “lone wolves.” (Paraphrased from Ben Zimmer's The Wall Street Journal article)
This example highlights how even the "lone wolves" mentioned weren't complete hermits, either. Rather, they were people renowned for their competence in acting alone while still integrating with their respective communities.
add a comment |
According to the Collins dictionary, a lone wolf is:
someone who is independent and likes doing things on their own, rather than doing them with other people.
"Lone wolf" is also more narrow and unambiguous in its meaning than similar phrases like "independent", which has 22 different definitions on Dictionary.com. Generally "lone wolf" is only used to describe a person or a literal lone wolf.
The Columbia Journalism Review has a really nice article on the origin of the phrase and its connotations through history. For instance:
Not unexpectedly, Native Americans had some legendary chiefs or warriors named “Lone Wolf,” though, as members of tribal communities, they were not really “lone wolves.” (Paraphrased from Ben Zimmer's The Wall Street Journal article)
This example highlights how even the "lone wolves" mentioned weren't complete hermits, either. Rather, they were people renowned for their competence in acting alone while still integrating with their respective communities.
add a comment |
According to the Collins dictionary, a lone wolf is:
someone who is independent and likes doing things on their own, rather than doing them with other people.
"Lone wolf" is also more narrow and unambiguous in its meaning than similar phrases like "independent", which has 22 different definitions on Dictionary.com. Generally "lone wolf" is only used to describe a person or a literal lone wolf.
The Columbia Journalism Review has a really nice article on the origin of the phrase and its connotations through history. For instance:
Not unexpectedly, Native Americans had some legendary chiefs or warriors named “Lone Wolf,” though, as members of tribal communities, they were not really “lone wolves.” (Paraphrased from Ben Zimmer's The Wall Street Journal article)
This example highlights how even the "lone wolves" mentioned weren't complete hermits, either. Rather, they were people renowned for their competence in acting alone while still integrating with their respective communities.
According to the Collins dictionary, a lone wolf is:
someone who is independent and likes doing things on their own, rather than doing them with other people.
"Lone wolf" is also more narrow and unambiguous in its meaning than similar phrases like "independent", which has 22 different definitions on Dictionary.com. Generally "lone wolf" is only used to describe a person or a literal lone wolf.
The Columbia Journalism Review has a really nice article on the origin of the phrase and its connotations through history. For instance:
Not unexpectedly, Native Americans had some legendary chiefs or warriors named “Lone Wolf,” though, as members of tribal communities, they were not really “lone wolves.” (Paraphrased from Ben Zimmer's The Wall Street Journal article)
This example highlights how even the "lone wolves" mentioned weren't complete hermits, either. Rather, they were people renowned for their competence in acting alone while still integrating with their respective communities.
edited Aug 8 at 2:27
answered Aug 8 at 2:16
drmuelrdrmuelr
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Self-actualizing or perhaps self-reliant are compounds which might serve. Most words for this are negative, so you might have to soften.
Slightly-reclusive.
A bit of a hermit. That sort of thing.
I think she's asking for an English word.
– David
Aug 7 at 20:33
How negative are they? As I look up and find they are not disapproving; here I mean two words ‘self-actualizing’ and ‘self-reliant’.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:08
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Self-actualizing or perhaps self-reliant are compounds which might serve. Most words for this are negative, so you might have to soften.
Slightly-reclusive.
A bit of a hermit. That sort of thing.
I think she's asking for an English word.
– David
Aug 7 at 20:33
How negative are they? As I look up and find they are not disapproving; here I mean two words ‘self-actualizing’ and ‘self-reliant’.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:08
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Self-actualizing or perhaps self-reliant are compounds which might serve. Most words for this are negative, so you might have to soften.
Slightly-reclusive.
A bit of a hermit. That sort of thing.
Self-actualizing or perhaps self-reliant are compounds which might serve. Most words for this are negative, so you might have to soften.
Slightly-reclusive.
A bit of a hermit. That sort of thing.
answered Aug 7 at 16:04
sas08sas08
3191 silver badge7 bronze badges
3191 silver badge7 bronze badges
I think she's asking for an English word.
– David
Aug 7 at 20:33
How negative are they? As I look up and find they are not disapproving; here I mean two words ‘self-actualizing’ and ‘self-reliant’.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:08
add a comment |
I think she's asking for an English word.
– David
Aug 7 at 20:33
How negative are they? As I look up and find they are not disapproving; here I mean two words ‘self-actualizing’ and ‘self-reliant’.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:08
I think she's asking for an English word.
– David
Aug 7 at 20:33
I think she's asking for an English word.
– David
Aug 7 at 20:33
How negative are they? As I look up and find they are not disapproving; here I mean two words ‘self-actualizing’ and ‘self-reliant’.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:08
How negative are they? As I look up and find they are not disapproving; here I mean two words ‘self-actualizing’ and ‘self-reliant’.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:08
add a comment |
Loner comes to mind.
loner noun
lon·er | ˈlō-nər
1 : one that avoids others: such as
- a : a person who is often alone or likes to be alone : someone who usually avoids the company of others
From the Merriam Webster dictionary:
He is a moody loner who doesn't become chummy with anyone.
— Sam Moses Many
rowers will agree that sculling is a sport for loners who relish the more quixotic elements of the sport.
— D. C. Churbuck
… she found that the image of the scientist as an antisocial loner is a myth …
— Warren E. Leary
It does often have a slight antisocial connotation, but isn't derogatory at all. Mainly, a loner just likes to do things by themselves.
Well he doesn’t like to be alone.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:09
1
Fair enough. I find this definition a bit strict, in fact: to me, a loner may not even actively avoid others as implied in the definition quoted, but might just prefer doing things by themselves. That said, I do like some of the other suggestions on this page too; just felt that this one was worth bringing up too!
– Cullub
Aug 8 at 2:14
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Loner comes to mind.
loner noun
lon·er | ˈlō-nər
1 : one that avoids others: such as
- a : a person who is often alone or likes to be alone : someone who usually avoids the company of others
From the Merriam Webster dictionary:
He is a moody loner who doesn't become chummy with anyone.
— Sam Moses Many
rowers will agree that sculling is a sport for loners who relish the more quixotic elements of the sport.
— D. C. Churbuck
… she found that the image of the scientist as an antisocial loner is a myth …
— Warren E. Leary
It does often have a slight antisocial connotation, but isn't derogatory at all. Mainly, a loner just likes to do things by themselves.
Well he doesn’t like to be alone.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:09
1
Fair enough. I find this definition a bit strict, in fact: to me, a loner may not even actively avoid others as implied in the definition quoted, but might just prefer doing things by themselves. That said, I do like some of the other suggestions on this page too; just felt that this one was worth bringing up too!
– Cullub
Aug 8 at 2:14
add a comment |
Loner comes to mind.
loner noun
lon·er | ˈlō-nər
1 : one that avoids others: such as
- a : a person who is often alone or likes to be alone : someone who usually avoids the company of others
From the Merriam Webster dictionary:
He is a moody loner who doesn't become chummy with anyone.
— Sam Moses Many
rowers will agree that sculling is a sport for loners who relish the more quixotic elements of the sport.
— D. C. Churbuck
… she found that the image of the scientist as an antisocial loner is a myth …
— Warren E. Leary
It does often have a slight antisocial connotation, but isn't derogatory at all. Mainly, a loner just likes to do things by themselves.
Loner comes to mind.
loner noun
lon·er | ˈlō-nər
1 : one that avoids others: such as
- a : a person who is often alone or likes to be alone : someone who usually avoids the company of others
From the Merriam Webster dictionary:
He is a moody loner who doesn't become chummy with anyone.
— Sam Moses Many
rowers will agree that sculling is a sport for loners who relish the more quixotic elements of the sport.
— D. C. Churbuck
… she found that the image of the scientist as an antisocial loner is a myth …
— Warren E. Leary
It does often have a slight antisocial connotation, but isn't derogatory at all. Mainly, a loner just likes to do things by themselves.
edited Aug 7 at 21:46
answered Aug 7 at 21:40
CullubCullub
1481 silver badge7 bronze badges
1481 silver badge7 bronze badges
Well he doesn’t like to be alone.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:09
1
Fair enough. I find this definition a bit strict, in fact: to me, a loner may not even actively avoid others as implied in the definition quoted, but might just prefer doing things by themselves. That said, I do like some of the other suggestions on this page too; just felt that this one was worth bringing up too!
– Cullub
Aug 8 at 2:14
add a comment |
Well he doesn’t like to be alone.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:09
1
Fair enough. I find this definition a bit strict, in fact: to me, a loner may not even actively avoid others as implied in the definition quoted, but might just prefer doing things by themselves. That said, I do like some of the other suggestions on this page too; just felt that this one was worth bringing up too!
– Cullub
Aug 8 at 2:14
Well he doesn’t like to be alone.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:09
Well he doesn’t like to be alone.
– Valerie
Aug 8 at 1:09
1
1
Fair enough. I find this definition a bit strict, in fact: to me, a loner may not even actively avoid others as implied in the definition quoted, but might just prefer doing things by themselves. That said, I do like some of the other suggestions on this page too; just felt that this one was worth bringing up too!
– Cullub
Aug 8 at 2:14
Fair enough. I find this definition a bit strict, in fact: to me, a loner may not even actively avoid others as implied in the definition quoted, but might just prefer doing things by themselves. That said, I do like some of the other suggestions on this page too; just felt that this one was worth bringing up too!
– Cullub
Aug 8 at 2:14
add a comment |
Several such words exist whereof "independent," "self-sufficient," and "self-reliant" are all examples.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
2
Please include references to back up the claim.
– marcellothearcane
Aug 8 at 6:47
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Several such words exist whereof "independent," "self-sufficient," and "self-reliant" are all examples.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
2
Please include references to back up the claim.
– marcellothearcane
Aug 8 at 6:47
add a comment |
Several such words exist whereof "independent," "self-sufficient," and "self-reliant" are all examples.
Several such words exist whereof "independent," "self-sufficient," and "self-reliant" are all examples.
answered Aug 8 at 2:28
Aryansh ShrivastavaAryansh Shrivastava
343 bronze badges
343 bronze badges
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
2
Please include references to back up the claim.
– marcellothearcane
Aug 8 at 6:47
add a comment |
2
Please include references to back up the claim.
– marcellothearcane
Aug 8 at 6:47
2
2
Please include references to back up the claim.
– marcellothearcane
Aug 8 at 6:47
Please include references to back up the claim.
– marcellothearcane
Aug 8 at 6:47
add a comment |
So .. this is the guy who just drives around instead of stopping to ask for directions?
– GEdgar
Aug 7 at 13:22
Well...it’s more like he wants to do these things to prove that he can do anything within his power. If it’s out of reach, like when he gets lost, he can ask for help.
– Valerie
Aug 7 at 13:49
A lone wolf is one who generally operates alone (paraphrasing OED def. 1.c), but it's been used alongside criminals/terrorists a lot lately, so I'd keep that in mind when determining usage.
– cmcf
Aug 7 at 15:17
@valerie I was going to suggest hermit or recluse but it sounds like you're just describing pretty normal behavior.
– sas08
Aug 7 at 15:57
1
I liked this question (and not just because I know someone just like this and how I would describe them...). Imo the OP should have been asked to give an example sentence before closing.
– S Conroy
Aug 8 at 13:01