Top 11 Reasons Scorpios Get So Much Hate

Written by Angel Eyedealism | Edited by Caroline Heiderscheit

Last Updated: March 17, 2023

Of all of the signs in the Zodiac, it seems like Scorpio gets criticized the most. If all signs are created equal, why does this water sign seem to get so much hate? The truth is, some reasons are valid (we all have faults, after all!). But at the same time, this sign is super misunderstood. We're giving you all the deets below; read on to learn why Scorpio gets so much hate!

This article is based on an interview with our astrologer and performance artist, Angel Eyedealism. Check out the full interview here.

Things You Should Know

Scorpios are super passionate, and this can actually earn them a bad rep at times. It can lead them to be possessive and obsessive in relationships.
They're also seen as temperamental and vengeful. To some, it feels like crossing a Scorpio is the end of the world.
At the same time, a lot of common critiques lack context. Sure, Scorpios expect a lot from others, but they give a ton back, too!

1

Scorpios are known for being jealous.

Scorpios are famous for letting the green-eyed monster take over. In love especially, Scorpio has no patience for even the slightest hints of disloyalty—and this definitely turns some people off to them. Flirting with other people while you’re dating Scorpio is a definite no-go, and if you mess with fire, you’re likely to see just how envious they can be.^{[1]
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- But at the same time, Scorpio would never consider breaking their partner’s trust. That's why they find it so hurtful when others don't give them the same respect!

2

They may have trouble letting things go.

Scorpio is known for holding grudges. Some signs want to drop an argument as soon as it's over, but Scorpio tends to dig their heels in. They might hold minor spats and snaps against you for way longer than they should, and yes, this definitely earns them a bad reputation with some.
- But the truth is, every sign has faults, and if you’re willing to treat Scorpio with respect, you’re unlikely to have trouble. Dishonesty and betrayal are Scorpio's pet peeves. Steer clear of those, and you won't end up on their bad side!

3

Scorpio can be vengeful at times.

Scorpio definitely believes in “an eye for an eye.” If you cross Scorpio, they’re unlikely to forgive and forget—and some people really don't like this about them. Signs that take things less seriously might find Scorpio a little cruel, or even scary. Understandably, there are people who'd hate to think a friend or ex would "get even" if they made a mistake—and Scorpio probably would!
- Revenge isn’t a favorite pastime for all Scorpios, though. Plus, this sign just believes that if you do wrong, you should own up to it. It's not mean-spirited, but rather, a philosophy that some people don’t jive with.

4

Some think they're manipulative.

Smart and intuitive, Scorpios have little trouble controlling others. As a sharp water sign, Scorpios may seem to know more about you than you do. Plus, they really like for things to be done their way. And what does this lead to? At times, Scorpios might be a little too comfortable (and capable of) convincing you to say and do exactly what they want.^{[2]
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- Power-seeking behavior is natural for Scorpio, not intentional.^{[3]
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  Research source} But that doesn't make it okay. If your resident Scorpio is manipulating you, set a boundary and ask them to do better; they probably care a ton and will be willing to work at it.

5

Scorpios might be a tad possessive.

In love, Scorpios want it to be you and them against the world. Scorpios are the most intense sign in the Zodiac. Because of this, they might expect partners to adopt the same attitude. As a result, Scorpio might expect others to spend all of their time with them. And this can rub some people the wrong way.^{[4]
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- This comes from a desire to love fully and deeply—with honest communication and openness in romance, Scorpios can reign in their possessive instincts.

6

They're a little obsessive in relationships.

As the most intense sign, Scorpio might let passion take over. If you get Scorpio to really love you, they won’t be able to get enough. Their thoughts, feelings, and actions will be totally dedicated to you and your relationship. For some people, this intensity can be offputting, or even downright unpleasant. That's one reason that Scorpio earns a bad rep from some.
- Others, though, love that Scorpio doesn’t hold back. Some people crave depth and excitement in their relationships. So much so that they might not mind those 5 missed calls left on their phone by Scorpio...

7

Scorpio has a rep for being standoffish.

Scorpios have no interest in small talk, which makes them seem cold. This sign wants things to be real, authentic, and deep, 24/7. If you’re asking about the weather, they’re not interested. Also, they don’t see any value in pretending to have fun when they’re actually not. For that reason, a new Scorpio pal might appear unenthused in conversation, which earns them a bad rep.
- This is just because Scorpio craves emotional, authentic conversation, and they don’t beat around the bush. Appreciate their honesty and remember that they aren’t snubbing you for sport, and Scorpio might grow on you!

8

They may take a while to open up.

Scorpios are known for being ultra-mysterious and secretive. When you first meet this water sign, you’re unlikely to get their life story straightaway. Instead, Scorpio may hold back and wait to learn more about you first. When Scorpio trusts you, they’ll open up—but for a lot of people, their lack of reciprocation early on feels a little selfish. So for this reason, Scorpio earns a bad rep.
- For close connects though, this isn’t an issue. In fact, some love that Scorpio is a little stingy with their secrets. It can make friends and partners who do earn their trust feel special.

9

Scorpios run hot and cold.

Scorpios, like all of the water signs, are inherently emotional beings. For some people, Scorpio’s intense feelings can make for extra day-to-day stress. If someone likes even-keeled, cool-headed company, then it makes sense that they wouldn’t be a fan of Scorpio.
- To some, Scorpio’s depth of emotion makes their life more vibrant and rich—it totally depends on your tastes! When someone's compatible with Scorpio, they'll consider their emotional intensity a positive instead of negative.

10

They have high standards for friends and partners.

Scorpio gives a lot to their relationships, and they expect a lot in return. Scorpio doesn’t need you to be perfect, but they do expect you to put 110% into your relationship with them. Did they call you? You better call back. Did they tell you a big secret? You better keep it close to the chest. For some people, these standards feel unfair and suffocating, which earns Scorpio a bad rep.
- At the same time, you’ll never have another friend like Scorpio. Whatever they expect from you, they’ll give 5x more in return. Scorpio won’t tolerate any disrespect for their inner circle; you’ll always feel totally protected and loved.

11

Some Scorpios play mind games.

Scorpios aren’t always into open and honest communication. If they’re worried about your loyalties, there’s a decent chance that they’ll put you to the test. Scorpios, for instance, might drop a fake secret just to see if it gets out—and if it does, they’ll lose interest in you. To a lot of people, this tendency feels a little childish.
- The truth is though, Scorpio is just a little insecure. This sign has huge trust issues, and because they’ve been burned in the past, they may feel that they can't trust without insurance. This doesn’t make it right, but it does make it understandable.