bashfulness
/'bæʃfulnis/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. The feeling or state of being easily embarrassed, shy, or timid, especially in social situations. It is characterized by a reluctance to draw attention to oneself, often accompanied by blushing, hesitation in speech, or avoiding eye contact. This feeling typically stems from modesty, self-consciousness, or a lack of confidence.
Usage
- Bashfulness is an uncountable noun describing a general quality or feeling.
- It is often used to describe a temporary state caused by a specific situation (e.g., receiving a compliment) or a more enduring personality trait.
- Common collocations include:
Examples
- Her initial bashfulness disappeared once she started talking about her favorite subject.
- He tried to hide his bashfulness behind a smile when he was introduced to the crowd.
- Out of bashfulness, she declined to speak on stage.
- The child's bashfulness made it difficult for her to make new friends at school.
Advanced Usage
- "To overcome one's bashfulness": To successfully become less shy or timid.
- He took a public speaking class to overcome his bashfulness.
- "A fit of bashfulness": A sudden, intense feeling of shyness.
- A fit of bashfulness struck her when she realized everyone was listening.
Variants and Related Words
- Bashful (adjective): Having or showing a tendency to be easily embarrassed; shy.
- He gave a bashful grin.
- Bashfully (adverb): In a shy or timid manner.
- She bashfully accepted the award.
Synonyms
- Shyness: The quality of being nervous or timid in the company of other people.
- Timidity: Lack of courage or confidence.
- Reticence: The quality of being reserved and unwilling to communicate freely.
- Diffidence: Modesty or shyness resulting from a lack of self-confidence.
Antonyms
- Boldness: Willingness to take risks and act innovatively; confidence.
- Assertiveness: Confidence and forcefulness in stating one's views.
- Extroversion: The quality of being outgoing and socially confident.
Noun
- feeling embarrassed due to modesty