You can’t be popular if you don’t want to be. At least, that’s what the kids say.

But being “popular” is a loaded word. What it means to one person might not mean the same thing to another. So what does it entail?

The basics: Being popular means being liked by a lot of people and being sought out for friendship. The opposite of popular would be unpopular — which refers to someone who doesn’t have many friends and isn’t sought out for friendship.

Being popular is often determined by how many people like you, how many people you know and how well-known you are in your peer group. But sometimes popularity isn’t as simple as that. In fact, there are some ways that can help make you less popular without even realizing it.

Being open about your life can be fun, but there are some things that are better kept private — like your feelings or family problems — because sharing too much about yourself can make other people feel uncomfortable or awkward around you. It’s also important not to talk too much about other people because then everyone will start.

Last modified: October 6, 2022