bashful

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "bashful" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who feels shy or timid. For example, "She was too bashful to say anything at the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The response is at first a bashful smile, before a glint in the eye and a grin as wide as the Great Rift Valley.

The Guardian - Sport

RaeLynn's detractors find her bashful lyrics obnoxious and her voice grating, but to her credit, she has a clear songwriting perspective and a very distinctive sound.

The Guardian - Music

But while their brand of bashful, synth-driven pop may be a little rough around the edges(and their seemingly sweet lyrics tinged with ulterior motive), they are hardly a niche prospect.

The Guardian - Music

"Like my friends say, I'm crying in my limo," he jokes, letting out a bashful smile.

The Guardian - Books

So it was with the reporting of the recent visit to the Coachella music festival by Kim Kardashian's half-sister Kendall Jenner, or, as Grazia magazine recently dubbed her, with a compelling combination of snappiness and bashful understatement, "the global aggregate of fairytale young womanhood".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Likewise, UMNO hardliners might argue that what is needed now is to bolster support among its Malay core by replacing Mr Najib with a less bashful Malay supremacist.

The Economist

Even Indira was tongue-tied and bashful early in her career.

The Economist

After stopping the rebels in their tracks, France, he insisted, would hand over the country's security to African forces.A year-and-a-half later, the French are less bashful about their intentions in the region.

The Economist

Privately owned companies tend to be even more bashful.

The Economist

The exhibition catalogue refers to the French emperor as "seeking to use national sentiments for his own ends" and implies that it was the monarchical alliance that defeated him, and this was the true promoter of European co-operation and peace.Some French historians, however, are much less bashful about claiming Napoleon to the cause of European Unity.

The Economist

The shopkeeper then helpfully explained that he was "not bashful" about expressing his opinions.Bigotry cannot explain, however, why Mr Obama's approval rating among white Americans has fallen since he took office, from roughly 60% to 40%.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the adjective "bashful", consider the context of the shyness. Is it due to genuine timidity, or is it a more affected coyness? Choose the word that best reflects the nuance you want to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "bashful" when "ashamed" is more appropriate. "Bashful" describes a general shyness, while "ashamed" indicates feeling guilt or disgrace for a specific action.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "bashful" primarily functions as a descriptive word, modifying nouns to indicate a state of shyness or timidity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, offering examples where it describes smiles, lyrics, and individuals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bashful" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjective to describe shyness or timidity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the examples from various sources highlight its versatility. While primarily found in news and media contexts, it is also used in encyclopedias and formal business writing. When using "bashful", consider whether "ashamed" might be a more accurate descriptor if guilt or disgrace is implied. Related terms include "shy", "timid", and "reserved", offering alternative options to refine your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shy

Direct synonym, indicating a tendency to avoid social situations due to discomfort or fear.

timid

Implies a lack of courage or confidence, leading to hesitation in interactions.

reserved

Suggests a deliberate restraint in expressing feelings or opinions.

reticent

Indicates a reluctance to speak freely or openly, often due to shyness or discretion.

diffident

Highlights a lack of self-confidence and a hesitance to assert oneself.

coy

Suggests a playful or affected shyness, often used to create interest or intrigue.

self-effacing

Emphasizes a tendency to downplay one's own achievements or qualities.

demure

Often used to describe women, implying modesty and reserve in behavior.

introverted

Describes someone who gains energy from spending time alone and may be less outgoing in social settings.

sheepish

Indicates embarrassment or guilt, often accompanied by a shy demeanor.

FAQs

How can I use "bashful" in a sentence?

You can use "bashful" to describe someone who is shy or timid. For example, "He gave a "bashful smile" when he received the compliment."

What words can I use instead of "bashful"?

Alternatives to "bashful" include "shy", "timid", and "reserved", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say someone is "being bashful"?

Yes, it is correct. Saying someone is "being bashful" means they are currently exhibiting shy or timid behavior.

What's the difference between "bashful" and "coy"?

"Bashful" generally describes a genuine shyness, while "coy" often implies a more playful or affected shyness, sometimes used to attract attention.