staying aloof vs being aloof

Both "staying aloof" and "being aloof" are correct phrases, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Staying aloof" implies a temporary state of keeping oneself apart from others, while "being aloof" suggests a more permanent or inherent characteristic of being distant or uninvolved.

Last updated: March 25, 2024 • 658 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"staying aloof "

This phrase is used to describe a temporary state where someone is deliberately keeping themselves apart from others or not getting involved in a situation.

Examples:

She preferred staying aloof from the office politics.
During the party, he was seen staying aloof in a corner.

Show examples from the web [+]

He's just been so aloof lately, always staying late at work, never has time for my calls.

Alternatives:

keeping aloof
remaining aloof
keeping to oneself

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"being aloof "

This phrase is used to describe a more permanent or inherent characteristic of someone who is distant, uninvolved, or detached from others.

Examples:

She has a reputation for being aloof and unapproachable.
His being aloof often makes it difficult for others to connect with him.

Show examples from the web [+]

I feel like I made a mistake by being aloof from the age of, like, ten on.
Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, we keep being accused of being remote from the citizens and aloof.
While the EU is complacently celebrating its 50th anniversary in Berlin and organising festivities and concerts in Brussels, the genocide in Darfur continues unrelentingly with the EU remaining aloof and indifferent to the atrocities being committed on a daily basis in this corner of Africa.
And this, of course, is the basis of much of Eastern philosophy, and that is there is no real independent self, aloof from other human beings, inspecting the world, inspecting other people.

Alternatives:

acting aloof
appearing aloof
having an aloof demeanor

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

staying aloof vs being aloof

"staying aloof "

"being aloof "

Related Comparisons