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Diffidently: meaning, definitions and examples

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diffidently

 

[ ˈdɪfɪdəntli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

manner of speaking

Diffidently means to do something in a shy or self-effacing manner, often indicating a lack of confidence. When someone acts diffidently, they may hesitate to express their opinions or take actions due to fear of judgment or rejection.

Synonyms

self-consciously, shyly, timidly, uncertainly

Examples of usage

  • She spoke diffidently during the meeting.
  • He approached the group diffidently, unsure of how to introduce himself.
  • They diffidently shared their ideas, worried about how they would be received.

Translations

Translations of the word "diffidently" in other languages:

🇵🇹 timidamente

🇮🇳 संकोचपूर्वक

🇩🇪 schüchtern

🇮🇩 dengan ragu

🇺🇦 сором'язливо

🇵🇱 nieśmiało

🇯🇵 内気に

🇫🇷 timidement

🇪🇸 tímidamente

🇹🇷 utangaç bir şekilde

🇰🇷 소심하게

🇸🇦 بتردد

🇨🇿 plachým způsobem

🇸🇰 placho

🇨🇳 羞怯地

🇸🇮 sramežljivo

🇮🇸 hógum

🇰🇿 ұялып

🇬🇪 მორიდებით

🇦🇿 çəkinərək

🇲🇽 tímidamente

Word origin

The word 'diffidently' comes from the Latin root 'diffidere', which means 'to distrust'. The Latin prefix 'dis-' implies a negation, while 'fidere' means 'to trust'. The word entered the English language in the late 16th century, initially carrying connotations of lack of trust or confidence. Over time, its meaning evolved to represent a broader sense of shyness and hesitation in social situations. It has often been used in literary and formal contexts to describe individuals who are reserved and reluctant to assert themselves. The underlying implication is that such individuals are not merely shy, but also harbor an innate doubt about their abilities or opinions, leading to a diffident demeanor.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,833 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.