diffidence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

One of the most frustrating aspects of the Cuomo campaign is the candidate’s diffidence about his time as governor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 12, 2025

"He brings the sweetness and floppiness of early career Hugh Grant, but relies less on cringey posh diffidence and more on a sweet theatricality," she wrote.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2024

“It is probably this diffidence that has made it difficult to make progress on solutions.”

From Seattle Times • Jul. 23, 2023

There is a diffidence to Stewart’s performance, a sense that she simply doesn’t want this anymore, that is nowhere to be found in Corrin’s turn.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 3, 2021

Jane’s temper was not desponding, and she was gradually led to hope, though the diffidence of affection sometimes overcame the hope, that Bingley would return to Netherfield and answer every wish of her heart.

From "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen