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

And Singh's unassuming personality, which once made his every move seem like a revelation, was labelled as showing complacency, diffidence and even arrogance by some.

From BBC • Dec. 27, 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

At any rate I have lost my diffidence, my timidity, my shyness with strangers.

From "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier