Words / C2

uh-LOOF/əˈluːf/

Aloof means emotionally distant, not joining in: remain aloof, an aloof manner. Distant and reserved are everyday; haughty adds pride. A roof is a lookalike in tired reading. Do not call a quiet, working professional aloof without the coldness.

Meaning

Not friendly or willing to take part; emotionally distant.

Examples

• “An aloof dean still had to sign the fire report.”
• “An aloof dean still had to sign the fire report; distance was not a defence.”
• “Reserved can be shy; aloof is cold distance. Haughty is proud. Stand aloof from a quarrel can be wise. Professional quiet is not automatically aloof.”

Good to know

Distant; holding back. Everyday: distant / reserved. Proud cousin: haughty. Not mere professional quiet.

Near in meaning

distant

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