clinginess
clinginess — noun
1. a tendency to hold on too tightly to someone emotionally or physically, wanting
a tendency to hold on too tightly to someone emotionally or physically, wanting more attention and reassurance than a relationship can comfortably provide.
Mert's friends noticed that his clinginess was pushing away anyone who tried to date him.
Anjali saw her daughter's clinginess as a natural phase that children grow out of.
uncountable noun used with possessive: [possessive] clinginess
The counselor explained that Liam's clinginess came from a fear of being abandoned.
Yuki's younger brother showed signs of clinginess whenever their mother left the room.
- neediness
stronger negative tone — suggests the person always demands attention
- dependence
more neutral and wider in meaning — can refer to physical or financial reliance, not just emotional
- attachment
more neutral or even positive — a healthy attachment is considered normal in child development
- independence
describes a person who does not rely heavily on others for emotional support
- self-sufficiency
emphasises ability to meet one's own emotional needs
用法筆記
Often describes emotional behaviour in romantic or close personal relationships. Can carry a negative connotation when used about a dating partner; less negative when referring to young children.