What does "personal space" mean?

The physical space closely surrounding a person, which can lead to discomfort, anger or anxiety if encroached on.

Personal space

Q: What is a synonym for "personal space"?

Common synonyms include: being private, boundary-conscious, boundary-respecting, compound modifier, descriptor, distant posture.

noun

noun ·Uncommon ·Advanced level

Definitions

Noun

1
The physical space closely surrounding a person, which can lead to discomfort, anger or anxiety if encroached on. countable, uncountable
"It is customary, moreover, for those sharing a cabin to while away train journeys chatting on the two bottom bunks, which is likely to jar with many Westerners' narrower conceptions of personal space and ownership (especially if they have paid top dollar for the prized bottom bunk)."
2
An area which can be regarded as belonging to a person privately, in which to place belongings etc. countable, uncountable
"Like long-term couple Helena Bonham Carter and Tim Burton, who famously live in separate houses, I believe that personal space is the key to a healthy relationship."

Synonyms

All synonyms

being private boundary-conscious boundary-respecting compound modifier descriptor distant posture

Antonyms

All antonyms

common room communal space most communal spaces closeness

Example

More examples

"It is customary, moreover, for those sharing a cabin to while away train journeys chatting on the two bottom bunks, which is likely to jar with many Westerners' narrower conceptions of personal space and ownership (especially if they have paid top dollar for the prized bottom bunk)."

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