How to Tell the Difference Between Nerds and Geeks

The terms "nerd" and "geek" are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Both terms can be viewed as either endearing or pejorative, depending on how the term is applied, by whom, and to whom. And there is always passion aplenty involved in the definition and application of either term. This article will help you to tell the difference between nerds and geeks, with ample room for your own subjective interpretation! 

1. Understand the terms. While the terms are often used interchangeably by people "less-in-the-know", and for some people who self-apply the labels "geek" or "nerd", there is often an overlap in characteristics,^[1] and there are some characteristics that can be emphasized:
   • The term "nerd" was apparently coined in 1954, possibly from the Dr Seuss line "A nerkle, a nerd, and a seersucker too!".^[2] A nerd could be viewed as someone with an extremely intense interest or fascination in an academic field of study (often an obscure field), or similar "cerebral" pursuit. Being a nerd is typically associated with intellect, as a nerd often enjoys specialising in complicated fields of study. Nerds may also have difficulties socialising with others, as many tend towards being introverted, although it is also said that a nerd cannot be bothered developing social skills while busy with other interests.^[3] Nerds often have gained a strong and diverse skill set from their studies and experiences, which may at times be unorthodox or impractical. Nerd interests may cover a broad range of interests, from movies to games (video and table-top), to more practical skills such as computer science.
     • Very likely to be a rocket scientist, a renowned yet reclusive professor, a scientist, an intellectual, an inventor, etc.
   • The term "geek" is often said to have originated from circus performers in sideshows, referring to those who performed bizarre feats.^[4] However, its earliest meaning is, "one who is regarded as foolish, offensive, worthless, etc."^[5] Today, the term has taken on a positive slant and a geek could be viewed as someone with an interest or lifestyle having to do with niche activities, especially fandom and technology.^[6] It is not uncommon for a geek to be capable of reciting large amounts of knowledge that is unintuitive, intriguing and (at times) long-winded. The knowledge could be anything from the mundane to 'living encyclopedia' status.^[7] Geeks tend to have average grades. Geeks can vary in their interests, from fun (films) and sometimes even frivolous things (collecting plastic figurines), to heavily technological interests (computing, hacking, and programming). Urban Dictionary goes so far as to suggest that society still views computer programming as a "bizarre feat" and the term "geek" is a proud label reflecting this.^[8]
     • Likely to be a gamer, a Star Trek fan, technologically enthused, a software programmer, a film series/book series buff, a free-spirited (not malevolent) technology hacker, a creator of unusual objects (artist, etc.), etc.^[9]
2. Observe the person. What sort of words and phrases do they interject into their dialogue?
   • Jargon and obscure referencing: Nerds are unabashed about using jargon or unfamiliar terminology in their dialogue, whereas geeks will use obscure references abundantly.
   • Details: Geeks often take interest in the microcosmic details of life, such as noticing that your present situation is much like one from a news article or novel. Nerds will be seemingly uninterested in the details of daily life, being more focused on the macroscopic, such as scientific possibilities and the future of humankind.
3. Take a quick inventory of their prominent possessions, especially ones related to hobbies and other interests. Check for unusual objects, such as a dictionary of an obscure language, or an encyclopedia of exotic birds. Nerds may be more willing than geeks to show off hobbies and possessions that flaunt their intellect, whereas geeks may take pride in more obscure and unique subjects.
4. Engage the person in conversation. If the person fails to respond in a socially comfortable manner (i.e., they make you nervous, or vice versa), you may be talking to a nerd. If they respond in a comfortable manner but appear a little "dorky", such as speaking and/or acting silly, you might be talking to a geek. Also, nerds may speak in layman's terms for your benefit because you may not understand the basic concepts of their area of interest. Geeks may speak in detail about their interests, possibly forgetting that the target audience may not have the same level of knowledge in that field as themselves.
   • Jokes: Geeks usually get them, nerds either don't, or can't be bothered trying.^[10]
5. Inquire about the person's interests. Hobbies which do not elicit emotion, such as frequent studying of academic works, are good indications of a nerd, while an obsession with the practice of academics (i.e., a passionate college lecturer) would indicate a geek.
   • Example nerd interests for comparison:
     1. Physics (such as quantum mechanics or astronomy), chemistry, biology, engineering and fuzzy math
     2. Chess, and other strategy games
     3. 17th century English literature
     4. Classical music
     5. International politics and CSpan stuff
     6. Computer programming (overlap interest)
   • Example geek interests for comparison:
     • Specialized forms of activities, such as 'tricking'
     • "Niche" activities, such as electrical engineering
     • Novels that have a foundation within a field of study
     • Noise, techno-music
     • "Odd" activities, such as creating Rube-Goldberg machines
     • Computer programming (overlap interest)
6. Check out the partner of the person in question. Matt Blum claims that geeks have no problem falling in love with non-geeks but nerds always fall in love with other nerds. However, not all geeks/nerds want the attention of a love interest, or simply don't care whether or not they have one.^[11]
7. Note that the interests of nerds and geeks often overlap. Most nerds enjoy the more intellectual forms of science fiction and most geeks have a higher knowledge of science or encyclopedic data than the general population.
8. Aim to assume nothing and to treat all fellow human beings with equal respect, whatever label they're self-applying or you're tempted to apply. While there are a number of (often geek) commentators arguing that the term "geek" has a more modern, updated and positive connotation than that of "nerd"^[12], the viewpoint is in the eye (or argument) of the beholder. The best approach to speaking and engaging with any person in your life is to be respectful, considerate and caring before all.
   • Remember that someone who calls themselves a nerd or geek may have different definition or interpretation of the term than you do. There are regional trends, but definitions should be examined on a person-by-person basis.
   • Some geeks perceive themselves as having transitioned from being a nerd earlier in life to becoming a switched-on geek later in life, almost like an epiphany, or a rite of passage.^[13] Whatever the case, most of us have experienced growth at various stages of life, so try not to box anybody in with past expectations.
   • Be aware that 'your' application of either the term "geek" or "nerd" to another person may be viewed as an insult, whereas if said within the group, it may be viewed as positive.^[14]