be coy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be coy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is being shy or pretending to be modest, often in a playful or flirtatious manner. Example: "She decided to be coy when he complimented her, smiling and looking away instead of responding directly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Why be coy?

The New York Times

Don't be coy, Meg.

Independent

"That would be coy".

The New York Times

But then, why be coy?

The New York Times

But why be coy?

The Guardian - Arts

Let's not be coy.

The New York Times

Don't be coy.

The Guardian

And let's not be coy.

The New Yorker

But let's not be coy.

The New Yorker

I don't mean to be coy.

The New York Times

Come now, don't be coy..

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be coy" when you want to describe someone who is playfully evasive or hesitant, especially in a flirtatious or teasing manner. It implies a deliberate act of holding back information or affection.

Common error

Avoid using "be coy" when you simply mean someone is genuinely shy or introverted. "Be coy" implies a degree of intentionality and playfulness that might not be present in genuine shyness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be coy" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe a manner of behavior or a conscious choice to act in a shy, modest, or evasive way. Ludwig shows examples where it's used in both direct commands and descriptive contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be coy" is a versatile verb phrase that signifies a deliberate act of shyness, modesty, or evasiveness, frequently with a playful or flirtatious intent. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. When employing this phrase, remember that it implies intentionality, distinguishing it from genuine shyness. Consider using alternatives like "act shy" or "play hard to get" depending on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey. Its frequent usage across authoritative sources ensures its relevance in various communicative settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act shy

Focuses on the act of shyness rather than a specific reluctance to reveal information.

play hard to get

Emphasizes the element of creating increased desirability through feigned disinterest.

feign modesty

Highlights the pretense of humbleness and reserve.

be reserved

Indicates a general demeanor of restraint and lack of openness.

keep mum

Suggests remaining silent or secretive about a topic.

hold back

Implies restraining oneself from fully expressing or revealing something.

be evasive

Focuses on avoiding directness in answering or addressing a question.

beat around the bush

Describes indirectness in speech, often to avoid a sensitive topic.

mince words

Suggests speaking indirectly or delicately to avoid causing offense.

demur

Implies politely refusing or expressing doubt about something.

FAQs

How can I use "be coy" in a sentence?

You can use "be coy" to describe someone who is playfully evasive or shy, like: "She decided to "be coy" when he complimented her, smiling and looking away instead of responding directly".

What does it mean to "be coy"?

To "be coy" means to act shy or modest, often in a flirtatious or teasing way. It can also mean to be reluctant to give details about something.

What can I say instead of "be coy"?

You can use alternatives like "act shy", "play hard to get", or "feign modesty" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to "be coy"?

No, it's not always appropriate. Being coy can be seen as manipulative or insincere in certain situations. It's important to consider the context and your relationship with the other person.