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diffidence

[dif-i-duhns] / ˈdɪf ɪ dəns /


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.

Ben Platt wears both his nervous diffidence and his blazing talent on his sleeve.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 15, 2025

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

He put the lemons into a bag and, with a curious diffidence, she came closer to the counter to give him the money.

From "Go Tell It on the Mountain" by James Baldwin




Vocabulary lists containing diffidence


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