Bashfully Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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bashfully
[ˈbæʃ.fəl.i ]
Definition
in a shy or embarrassed manner
Bashfully is an adverb that describes the action of doing something in a shy or embarrassed manner. It is commonly used to depict someone who is feeling self-conscious or awkward in a social situation. The person may speak softly, avoid eye contact, or blush when feeling bashful.
Synonyms
embarrassedly, self-consciously, shyly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bashfully |
Use this word to describe someone who is feeling shy or hesitant, usually in a sweet or endearing way. It is often used to describe children or someone who is acting in an innocent or modest manner.
|
| shyly |
Use this word to describe when someone acts in a reserved or timid manner, usually because they are uncomfortable or lacking confidence in social situations. It doesn't necessarily have a negative connotation; it can be neutral or even positive sometimes.
|
| self-consciously |
Use this word to describe when someone is overly aware of themselves and worried about what others think. It often implies nervousness or discomfort in social situations.
|
| embarrassedly |
This word is used to describe actions or expressions when someone feels uncomfortable or ashamed, often due to a mistake or awkward situation. It has a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- She smiled bashfully when he complimented her.
- He laughed bashfully after making a mistake.
- The child waved bashfully to the crowd.
- They spoke bashfully about their achievements.
- I could tell she was feeling bashfully by the way she fidgeted.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Shyness is often a personality trait that can be influenced by social anxiety and feelings of self-consciousness.
- Research shows that people who identify as bashful may have heightened physiological responses, such as increased heart rate in social situations.
- Being bashful can affect interactions and relationships, as it may lead to avoidance of social contexts or challenges.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, being bashful can be seen as endearing and a sign of modesty, especially in young children.
- Conversely, some societies view bashfulness as a hindrance to personal or professional success, encouraging more outgoing behavior.
- Cultural norms dictate how people express bashfulness; in some cultures, it's celebrated, while in others, it's discouraged.
Literature
- The theme of bashfulness is common in literature, often depicting characters who struggle with social situations, like Elizabeth Bennet in 'Pride and Prejudice'.
- Poets like John Keats have captured the essence of bashful moments, using it to highlight inner conflict and vulnerability.
- In fairy tales, bashfulness is often a trait of characters who gain confidence through their experiences, showing growth and bravery.
Pop Culture
- In many films, bashful characters often provide comic relief, embodying awkwardness around romantic interests, such as Peter Parker in 'Spider-Man'.
- Television shows often portray bashful characters as relatable, making them audience favorites due to their innocence.
- Songs that explore themes of bashfulness include 'Shy' by the girl group 'The Cheetah Girls', highlighting how feeling bashful can impact relationships.
Origin of 'bashfully'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'bashfully' comes from the Middle English term 'basche', meaning to show confusion or embarrassment.
- It combines 'bash', which means to be shy, with the suffix '-fully' to indicate the manner of being.
- The word has roots in the Old Norse word 'bask', which refers to being shy or timid.
The word 'bashfully' is derived from the adjective 'bashful,' which originated in the late Middle English period. The term 'bashful' comes from the Old French word 'baissier,' meaning 'to lower' or 'to bow down,' which later evolved into 'bash,' meaning 'to be abashed or ashamed.' Over time, the adverb 'bashfully' was formed to describe the action of being shy or embarrassed.
See also: bash, basher, bashful, bashfulness.