a shy query

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shy query" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that is asked in a timid or hesitant manner, often due to uncertainty or lack of confidence. Example: "She approached the professor with a shy query about her research topic, unsure if it was a valid concern."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Indeed, for a guitarist whose arms are bedecked in tattoos and who maintains an aggressive schedule of drinking, Kubler seems genuinely touched by the shy queries he gets from teenagers.

The New York Times - Magazine

Got a shy kid?

The Washington Post

She offered a shy smile.

The New York Times

A shy, embarrassed smile appeared.

The New Yorker

I had a shy nature.

The New Yorker

She was a shy girl".

Independent

"He's a shy man.

The New Yorker

Shen flashed a shy grin.

The New York Times - Sports

A shy, conspiratorial smile.

The Guardian

Rather a shy manner.

The Guardian - Books

A shy need to shine.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a shy query" when you want to convey that the question being asked is delivered with hesitation or a lack of confidence. Ensure the context supports the nuance of timidity or reservedness.

Common error

Avoid using "a shy query" in highly formal or assertive contexts where direct and confident communication is expected. The phrase implies a degree of uncertainty that might be inappropriate in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shy query" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "shy" modifies the noun "query". This structure typically describes the manner in which the query is presented. Ludwig examples show it qualifying the nature of the inquiry itself.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a shy query" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a question or inquiry made with timidity or hesitation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While relatively rare, the phrase appears in various contexts, including news media and business, with a neutral register. To enhance clarity or formality, alternatives like "a timid question" or "a hesitant inquiry" can be considered. It's best used in contexts where portraying the manner of questioning is important, avoiding overly formal or assertive environments where directness is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a timid question

Replaces 'shy' with 'timid', emphasizing a lack of courage or confidence.

a hesitant inquiry

Substitutes 'shy' with 'hesitant', focusing on the pause or reluctance in asking.

a diffident question

Replaces 'shy' with 'diffident', highlighting a lack of self-assurance.

a bashful inquiry

Uses 'bashful' instead of 'shy', indicating a sense of embarrassment or social awkwardness.

a reticent question

Replaces 'shy' with 'reticent', emphasizing a disinclination to speak freely.

a subdued query

Uses 'subdued' instead of 'shy', focusing on the quiet or restrained nature of the question.

an introverted inquiry

Replaces 'shy' with 'introverted', linking the question to an inward-focused personality.

a demure question

Substitutes 'shy' with 'demure', suggesting modesty and reservedness.

a coy inquiry

Uses 'coy' instead of 'shy', implying a playful or artful shyness.

a shrinking question

Replaces 'shy' with 'shrinking', creating a more vivid image of timidity.

FAQs

How can I use "a shy query" in a sentence?

You might say, "She approached the librarian with "a shy query" about obscure historical texts", indicating her hesitancy.

What's a good alternative to "a shy query"?

Consider using alternatives like "a timid question" or "a hesitant inquiry" if you want to convey a similar sense of uncertainty.

When is it appropriate to use "a shy query"?

It's appropriate when describing a question asked with noticeable hesitancy, often due to a lack of confidence or fear of judgment. It works well in narrative or descriptive contexts.

Is "a shy query" too informal for academic writing?

While not inherently informal, consider the tone of your academic work. In highly formal contexts, "a hesitant inquiry" might be a more suitable choice.