As someone who is not a native speaker in English, I wonder what is the difference between a nerd and a geek? and is one a compliment and the other isn't and why?

[seesaw]

A nerd could be considered a compliment. A nerd is like a really smart person or someone who knows a lot about a particular subject (math nerd) but isn't necessarily negative.

A geek is more of an insult, IMO. It also refers to a smart person or a person who knows a lot about a particular subject (band geek) but it does so in a negative way.

Some may disagree with this analysis, but that's my take.

Seesaw

[LiteraryLark]

Many, many, many people who are native English speakers debate this.

It is so hard to describe. Geek is definitely an insult. Nerd has become a cool thing now.

[Nammu]

Interesting question...so I googled it.
Geek, very knowledgeable person who is also social
Nerd,very knowledgeable person who is socially awkward

Think;
Lenard....geek
Sheldon....nerd

I've heard both as positives now but in the 70's both were negative

I'm confused again.

[LiteraryLark]

Nerds and Geeks can also be divided by fandom (not necessarily)

Nerds: Harry Potter, Doctor Who, Sherlock
Geeks: Star Wars, Star Trek

OK, let me be more specific: suppose I met someone who puts glasses but doesn't seem to be awkward or anything, which is more appropriate to say: he is a geek or he is a nerd?

[LiteraryLark]

Nerd Style:



Geek Style:



I chose the first image of how nerds are now seen as sexy and charming, whereas in the second photo geeks are a turn-off, goofy, braniacs.

[LiteraryLark]

Originally Posted by Wandering Soul

OK, let me be more specific: suppose I met someone who puts glasses but doesn't seem to be awkward or anything, which is more appropriate to say: he is a geek or he is a nerd?

Neither, he is a person who wears glasses.

I wear square-rimmed glasses because Skrillex wears them.



He is neither nerd nor geek, but the style in the photo reflects a nerdy/hipster image.

[LiteraryLark]

Damn, I didn't think I'd throw in Skrilly on PC. <333

[black-roses]

Haha I would be considered a nerd I love Dr.Who, Sherlock holmes etc. I always thought star trek was for losers but then I watched it and I was like this is actually okay I like it. I guess people judge things but then when they take a closer look theres something relateable in it. haha

[Pikku Myy]

I am a nerd, always been. Nerd is like a very detail explorative oriented person. Geek is someone who is into a subject matter more than normal and dresses like the subject matter, lol

I'm sorry, it's still unclear to me.

[LiteraryLark]

Originally Posted by Wandering Soul

I'm sorry, it's still unclear to me.

Trust me, most people don't understand this.

At the beginning I thought they are synonyms, but then I knew that one of them has a negative connotation, but I'm not sure which one. Some people would say that the first person in the photos you presented is a geek and the other one is a nerd. You say the opposite!!

[vonmoxie]

For the record, I don't think either have specifically negative connotations these days; certainly not unilaterally. I know plenty of proud self-proclaimed persons of both nerd and geek persuasions.

[LiteraryLark]

Originally Posted by vonmoxie

lololololol

I'm just cautious because I'm not sure about this. In the movies and series the word "nerd" seems to have a negative connotation, that's at least what I concluded. Someone called me once a nerd and I didn't know if it's a compliment or insult!! I wouldn't use these two terms (why not using the word smart or intelligent ... etc), but since they are being used, I'm trying to know which is for which.

[vonmoxie]

Originally Posted by Wandering Soul

I'm just cautious because I'm not sure about this. In the movies and series the word "nerd" seems to have a negative connotation, that's at least what I concluded. Someone called me once a nerd and I didn't know if it's a compliment or insult!! I wouldn't use these two terms (why not using the word smart or intelligent ... etc), but since they are being used, I'm trying to know which is for which.

The thing is, they can be used either way. Affectionately, or insultingly. If you're really not sure of the person's intent, maybe assume the best?

Personally, I take almost everything as a compliment. Because even when people are trying to challenge me, I figure it's because they see me as worth challenging. If they're trying to take me down a notch, it's because of something in them that's unfulfilled.

That's true. Thanks

[shezbut]

Originally Posted by Wandering Soul

I'm just cautious because I'm not sure about this. In the movies and series the word "nerd" seems to have a negative connotation, that's at least what I concluded. Someone called me once a nerd and I didn't know if it's a compliment or insult!! I wouldn't use these two terms (why not using the word smart or intelligent ... etc), but since they are being used, I'm trying to know which is for which.

I distinctly recall both of these words being an insult, but I'm obviously not real young & hip either.

To answer your question, I would say that either word could be used as an insult or in a joking manner. It depends upon the tone in their voice, social cues and vibes sent out. If it was said in a chat room, and you couldn't pick up on physical cues, then you will have to look back upon the entire conversation and make an educated guess from there.

Imo, your best bet is simply asking that person if it was meant as a joke or if they were serious. Sorry that our language and it's usage is so confusing ~ very best wishes sent your way!

[Nammu]

People just like using four letter words.......take it as a compliment.

[lizardlady]

Some of us remember the day when both were an insult. Today I've heard both used as something nice OR an insult. It tends to be situational.

Vonmoxie, I love the cartoon!

I always thought a geek was one who embraced their nerdiness

OK, good. So, it's not just me who is confused about these used terms