![]() The meanings of modest and shy largely overlap however, modest suggests absence of undue confidence or conceit. However, diffident stresses a distrust of one's own ability or opinion that causes hesitation in acting or speaking.įelt diffident about raising an objection When could modest be used to replace shy? In some situations, the words diffident and shy are roughly equivalent. Put off by her coy manner In what contexts can diffident take the place of shy? While the synonyms coy and shy are close in meaning, coy implies a pretended shyness. Specifically, bashful implies a frightened or hesitant shyness characteristic of childhood and adolescence.Ī bashful boy out on his first date When might coy be a better fit than shy? ![]() Robert shrank from informing him, but he knew it to be his. Brave new world is from the title of Aldous Huxleys 1932 satirical utopian novel he lifted the phrase from Shakespeare ('Tempest' v.i.183). The words bashful and shy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Old English words for this, some with overtones of 'rashness,' included modig (now 'moody'), beald ('bold'), cene ('keen'), dyrstig ('daring'). Shy with strangers When can bashful be used instead of shy? While all these words mean "not inclined to be forward," shy implies a timid reserve and a shrinking from familiarity or contact with others. ![]() Some common synonyms of shy are bashful, coy, diffident, and modest. Frequently Asked Questions About shy How does the adjective shy contrast with its synonyms?
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