188 Another Word for Diffidence? – Diffidence Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say diffidence differently? Here are other words for diffidence and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of diffidence

The primary meaning of the word "diffidence" is a lack of confidence or self-assurance.

Etymology of diffidence

The word "diffidence" comes from the Latin "diffidentia", which is derived from "diffidere", meaning "to mistrust" or "to distrust"
The word has been used in English since the 15th century to describe a lack of confidence or trust in oneself or one's abilities

Synonyms

modesty humility shyness reserve timidity self-effacement bashfulness coyness demureness unassertiveness meekness mildness gentleness reticence introversion backwardness hesitation uncertainty insecurity lack of confidence doubt apprehension nervousness fearfulness cowardice faintness weakness delicacy sensitiveness tentativeness cautiousness wariness prudence discreetness tactfulness politeness courtesy deference respectfulness obedience compliance submissiveness docility tractability pliability flexibility adaptability amenability willingness acquiescence resignation unobtrusiveness inconspicuousness

Definitions

  • The state of lacking confidence or self-assurance, especially in one's abilities or qualities
  • * A feeling of uncertainty or hesitation in acting or deciding
  • * A lack of boldness or assertiveness in one's behavior or attitude

Usage Examples

  • Her diffidence made it difficult for her to speak up in meetings and share her ideas
  • * He struggled with diffidence throughout his career, often feeling uncertain about his abilities as a leader
  • * The team's diffidence after a string of losses made it hard for them to regain their momentum

Antonyms

confidence self-assurance assertiveness boldness courage fearlessness daring audacity presumption arrogance haughtiness conceit egotism pride self-importance complacency overconfidence brazenness impudence cheekiness sauciness impertinence forwardness pushiness aggressiveness belligerence pugnaciousness truculence bellicosity

Related Adjectives

modest humble reserved timid bashful coy demure unassertive meek mild gentle reticent introverted backward hesitant uncertain insecure doubtful apprehensive nervous fearful cowardly faint weak delicate sensitive tentative cautious wary prudent discreet tactful polite courteous deferential respectful obedient compliant submissive docile tractable pliable flexible adaptable amenable

Related Nouns

shyness modesty humility reserve timidity self-effacement bashfulness coyness demureness unassertiveness meekness mildness gentleness reticence introversion backwardness hesitation uncertainty insecurity doubt apprehension nervousness fearfulness cowardice

Related Verbs

hesitate doubt fear tremble quake quiver falter waver vacillate fluctuate oscillate stutter stammer stumble trip stagger stagger totter teeter wobble shake shiver quail cower cringe recoil shrink retreat withdraw surrender yield submit comply obey defer acquiesce resign
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