The 17 Phrases That ‘Scare’ Introverts the Most

Two introverts are scared.

Want to scare an introvert this Halloween? Just mention one of these phrases!

Not all introverts tremble in fear at the thought of a crowd, but let’s be honest and admit there are some phrases that strike fear into the heart of even the most stalwart introvert. So, just for fun, here are the phrases that “scare” us “quiet ones” the most.

I’m not screaming, you’re screaming.

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Phrases That ‘Scare’ Introverts

1. “Let’s go around the room and introduce ourselves.”

That dreaded icebreaker. Is there anything worse? Introverts would rather take their chances with a masked man holding a bloody chainsaw.

2. “Everyone will be there!”

Whether it’s a party, work event, or family get-together, introverts would rather be where the crowds aren’t. No, they don’t have Enochlophobia, and no, they don’t hate people. They’re simply wired to be extra sensitive to stimulation of all kinds. For the introvert, there’s nothing scarier than the threat of a dreaded introvert hangover.

3. “Tell me about yourself.”

Can we… not? When forced to reveal personal details about themselves to people they don’t know well, introverts feel as uncomfortable as a kid who ate too much Halloween candy. Ironically, they may feel more comfortable discussing something deeper — like their opinion on a political issue or the physics of time travel — than telling you about their weekend.

4. “I invited some friends over. I hope that’s okay!”

Friends are coming… to my home? My sacred space? The only place where I can relax and be myself? For introverts, last-minute guests mean no time to mentally prepare to be “on,” which is a terrifying prospect indeed.

5. “How ’bout this weather?”

Small talk. Those futile little exchanges that exist only to avoid awkward silences. For introverts who crave meaningful interaction, empty chitchat is pretty much the worst. Of course introverts hide in their apartment like a serial killer’s on the loose when they hear that neighbor in the hall — you know, the one who talks so much you can’t be sure they’re getting enough oxygen.

6. “We have plans tonight, remember?”

You forgot. You made the plans. And now every hope of enjoying a relaxing night at home has vanished like a nightmare upon waking.

7. “It’s a group project.”

Introverts generally work best when they can focus deeply without interruptions. They don’t “think out loud” like extroverts do, rather, they mostly process their thoughts, emotions, and ideas internally. For introverts, group projects at work or school can be like managing several costume changes in one night. Not only are you juggling the group dynamics, personality clashes, and the actual work of the project, but you’re also getting drained mentally and physically. So. Much. Socializing.

8. When the teacher says, “Since no one is raising their hand, I’ll call on students randomly.”

If only you could vanish like a ghost.

9. “I’m not ready to leave yet.”

If you’ve ever attended a party with an extrovert, you’ve definitely heard this phrase. Trapped in a socially exhausting nightmare with no escape, it’s like watching your own blood (err, energy) spill out before your eyes.

10. “It’s an open office.”

In an open office, there are few walls or dividers. This means no space to call your own, plus constant noise, interruptions, and the expectation to always be open to chitchat — even when you need to hunker down and focus. For the introvert, this is hell, M-F, 9-5.

11. “The internet is down.”

For many introverts, the internet holds a sacred space in their lives. It is the giver of delicious knowledge. It is their connection to other humans that doesn’t require putting on pants and seeing anyone in person. It is the lifeblood of their Netflix binges, Reddit rabbit holes, and online gaming. No internet? Be afraid, be very afraid.

12. “We’re going to be out all day.”

For introverts, a busy day can be just as tiring as a party. Places to go, people to see, with no breaks to recharge is the very definition of an nightmare for the solitude-loving introvert.

13. Everyone you know, in your living room: “SURPRISE!”

Of course, introverts want to feel the love, too. If only we could be loved for two hours on a Thursday night, then be left alone — not a surprise party with all our friends in attendance. In general, we “quiet ones” are creatures of habit, and we like knowing what’s coming, especially when it involves socializing. When we have time to mentally prepare to see people, we’re more present and engaged.

14. “I’ll call you!”

But I don’t use my phone for that.

15. “You’re just in time for karaoke!”

Sing? On stage? While people watch? Not on your life!

16. Your boss: “team-building exercises”

Introverts can make great team players because being a team player is all about being invested in the goals of the group. But team-building exercises are a different story. Awkward small talk and trust falls? Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.

17. *unexpected doorbell ring*

You:

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Image credit: @akaimade via Twenty20