reticence

Everyday

1. The habit of not saying much, or of keeping your feelings and thoughts to yourself. tree →
2. (sometimes, informal) Unwillingness to do something; reluctance. tree →

In the lessons

In stories it describes quiet, private characters: «Despite his reticence, he was kind». In formal writing: «reticence about discussing money». In everyday life: some people are naturally reticent and need time to share. Phrases: «reticence about», «his usual reticence», «overcome her reticence».

Examples

• Despite her reticence, Mia told the teacher what had happened. tree →
• His reticence made some people think he was unfriendly. tree →
• Grandad's reticence about the war meant he rarely talked about it. tree →
• She overcame her reticence and sang in front of the class. tree →
• The detective noticed the witness's reticence. tree →
• Reticence is not the same as rudeness; some people are just quiet. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Adjective: «reticent» (quiet, reserved). Stress: RET-i-sense. Traditionally it means «not speaking much»; using it to mean simply «reluctant» is common but some teachers mark it as a mistake.