bashful

What does “bashful” mean?

adjective.reluctant to draw attention to oneself; shy.

SAT Usage

The term is often found in contexts involving social interactions or personal character traits, typically highlighting themes of insecurity or awkwardness in social situations. It emphasizes a deeper layer of discomfort in asserting oneself, distinguishing it from similar words like "shy," which may not convey the same sense of timidity or reluctance to engage with others.

Common Confusions

Bashful implies a deeper sense of discomfort and reluctance to engage socially, while shy usually suggests a more general feeling of timidity without the same intensity of fear or awkwardness.

Example Sentences

• The bashful child hid behind her mother at the party.

• The bashful child hid behind his mother when strangers approached.