Four Temperaments Test

About the four temperaments

The idea of four temperaments goes back over 2,000 years to the Greek physicians Hippocrates and Galen. It describes four broad styles: sanguine (lively and sociable), choleric (driven and decisive), melancholic (thoughtful and careful) and phlegmatic (calm and steady).

It's a popular way to think and talk about personality, in families, churches, schools and teams. It is not a scientific test, though: modern psychology describes personality with more precise traits. Most people are a blend of two or more temperaments, and people can grow and change. Use your result to reflect, not to label yourself or others.

For a research-based test, try the Big Five personality test. For careers and CBE pathways, try the career interest test.

Questions and answers

What are the four temperaments?

Sanguine (lively and sociable), choleric (driven and decisive), melancholic (thoughtful and careful) and phlegmatic (calm and steady). The idea comes from the ancient Greek physicians Hippocrates and Galen.

Is the temperament test scientific?

No. The four temperaments are a traditional way to reflect on personality, not a scientific test. For a research-based measure, take the Big Five personality test.

Can I be more than one temperament?

Yes. Most people are a blend. The test shows all four scores and describes your top two when they are close.