outgoing
OUT-goh-ing
/ˈaʊtɡoʊɪŋ/
Friendly, socially confident, and open toward others.
Everyday descriptive word for someone who easily initiates conversation and makes friends.
The story behind the word. Formed in Middle English from 'out' and 'go'. Originally meant 'going out or departing', and by the 19th century evolved to describe a personality that readily reaches out to others.
Word relationships
- extroverted: Outgoing is everyday English; extroverted carries a more psychological connotation.
- reserved: Reserved people hold back emotions, unlike outgoing people who share openly.
Commonly confused with
- boisterous: Outgoing implies friendly open confidence, whereas boisterous implies loud, noisy physical energy.
Collocations
- outgoing personality
- warm and outgoing
- outgoing chief executive
Example sentences
- "We are seeking an outgoing customer service representative who communicates comfortably with strangers." Job application
Memory hook
They are always GOING OUT to meet people. Going out to connect.
When not to use
Avoid when you mean 'leaving office' unless context makes the double meaning clear.
Fun facts
- 'Outgoing' still retains its second meaning of 'leaving a political post' (e.g., outgoing president).
Explore more words
amiable, genial, hospitable, demeanor, affectionate, straightforward
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