I feel bashful

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I feel bashful" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a sense of shyness or embarrassment in a particular situation. Example: "When I was asked to speak in front of the class, I felt bashful and struggled to find the right words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Should I feel bashful about giving a recipe that involves little more than opening a can?" she asks.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Like dogs, they don't feel bashful about going up and sniffing each other".

The Economist

Newly trained little ones often hold at school because they feel bashful or intimidated.

The New York Times

When he was cast as an Austrian innkeeper in Basil Dean's Autumn Crocus (1934), one reviewer even took exception to his legs, writing that "Novello's schoolboy knees under his Tyrolean shorts make the audience, if not the players, feel bashful".

The Guardian - Film

When you're standing on stage beside the performer Beck and the crowd applauds, you can't help but blush and feel bashful.

TechCrunch

If you're a heterosexual man in this situation, do not feel bashful if a girl of this type puts the moves on you kids who were raised in Manhattan have the sexual adventurousness of Parisian flappers circa the roaring 20s.

Vice

As you seek help, you might feel bashful or embarrassed.

WikiHow

Feeling bashful about behaving this way in a theater?

The New York Times

She said she "never felt bashful writing about sex".

The Guardian - Books

I feel sociable.

Journal of International Humanitarian Action

8 I feel happy.

Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "I feel bashful" when you want to express a mild sense of shyness or embarrassment, often in response to a compliment or a situation that makes you feel slightly awkward.

Common error

Avoid using "I feel bashful" in highly informal settings. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Opt for alternatives like "I feel shy" or "I feel a little embarrassed" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the phrase "I feel bashful" is to express a subjective feeling or emotion. It functions as a statement of personal sentiment, indicating that the speaker is experiencing a sense of shyness or embarrassment. Ludwig confirms this.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I feel bashful" is a grammatically correct expression used to convey a sense of shyness or embarrassment. While considered relatively rare in modern usage, according to Ludwig's analysis, it appears across various contexts, including news, wikis, and scientific publications. Due to its slight formality, alternative phrases like "I feel shy" or "I feel embarrassed" might be more appropriate in casual conversations. Understanding the subtle differences between these options allows for more precise communication of emotions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I feel shy

Simpler and more direct way to express the same feeling.

I feel embarrassed

Focuses on the feeling of awkwardness or shame.

I feel self-conscious

Highlights awareness and discomfort about being observed.

I feel awkward

Emphasizes the uncomfortable nature of the situation.

I feel timid

Describes a general disposition to be shy or hesitant.

I feel reserved

Focuses on a restrained and private demeanor.

I feel reticent

Highlights a reluctance to speak or reveal one's thoughts.

I feel apprehensive

Emphasizes a feeling of anxiety or unease.

I feel diffident

Highlights a lack of confidence in oneself.

I feel sheepish

Implies a sense of foolishness or guilt.

FAQs

What does it mean to "feel bashful"?

To "feel bashful" means to experience a sense of shyness, self-consciousness, or mild embarrassment, often in response to praise, attention, or an awkward situation.

How can I use "I feel bashful" in a sentence?

You can use "I feel bashful" to express your emotions. For example, "When someone compliments my work, "I feel bashful" and often don't know how to respond."

What are some alternatives to "I feel bashful"?

Some alternatives to "I feel bashful" include "I feel shy", "I feel embarrassed", or "I feel awkward". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "I feel bashful" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "I feel bashful" is appropriate for formal writing, although it might be perceived as slightly old-fashioned. Consider the tone and audience of your writing. In some cases, a more straightforward alternative like "I feel shy" might be preferable.