Definition of Interpersonal
Quick Meaning of Interpersonal
Interpersonal means about how people interact and communicate with each other. It describes skills, relationships, or situations involving two or more people.
Detailed Definition of Interpersonal
relating to relationships or communication between people
How to Pronounce Interpersonal
Stress pattern: soOoo (5-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the third syllable: in-ter-PER-son-al. The 'per' is the strongest sound.
Watch out: in-PER-son-al (wrong stress), in-ter-per-SON-al (stress on 'son')
Origin and Etymology of Interpersonal
From Latin 'inter' (between) + 'personalis' (concerning a person). Formed in early 20th century psychology.
How to Use Interpersonal in a Sentence
Each example shows “interpersonal” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Good interpersonal skills help you work well with others.”
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“The team improved their interpersonal communication through workshops.”
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“Effective interpersonal relationships are built on trust and respect.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Interpersonal
Common Synonyms for Interpersonal
Smart Synonyms for Interpersonal — When to Use Each
- relational
- Emphasizes connections and dynamics between people.
- social
- Broader term; involves groups of people.
Antonyms of Interpersonal
Common Collocations with Interpersonal
These phrases pair with “interpersonal” in everyday English:
- interpersonal skills
- interpersonal relationships
- interpersonal communication
- interpersonal conflict
Common Mistakes When Using Interpersonal
Even fluent speakers slip up with “interpersonal”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong:
- ✓ Correct: He has good interpersonal skills.
- ✗ Wrong:
- ✓ Correct: interpersonal communication or relationships
Words Confused With Interpersonal
- Interpersonal vs Intrapersonal: Intrapersonal is within one person; interpersonal is between people. Compare →
Other Forms of Interpersonal
- Adverb: interpersonally
- Noun: interpersonality
Frequently Asked Questions About Interpersonal
What is the meaning of "Interpersonal"?
Interpersonal means about how people interact and communicate with each other. It describes skills, relationships, or situations involving two or more people.
How do you pronounce "Interpersonal"?
The IPA is /ˌɪntərˈpɝːsənəl/. Stress the third syllable: in-ter-PER-son-al. The 'per' is the strongest sound.
What part of speech is "Interpersonal"?
"Interpersonal" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Interpersonal"?
Common synonyms include social, relational, interactive.
How do you use "Interpersonal" in a sentence?
For example: "Good interpersonal skills help you work well with others."