become reticent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become reticent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone who is becoming more reserved or less willing to speak or share their thoughts. Example: "After the incident, she seemed to become reticent, rarely engaging in conversations with her colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

My father would become reticent.

The New York Times

In a diverse group of students, it is often women, students of color, and international students who become reticent when a handful of vocal students dominate the class discussion.

University of California, Berkeley

Mr Gove added: "Teachers worry that if they assert a degree of discipline, one determined maverick pupil will say 'I know my rights' and so teachers become reticent about asserting themselves.

BBC

There have been anecdotal reports that researchers in other countries have become reticent to include U.K. colleagues in new grant proposals because they worry that such partnerships won't endure when the divorce becomes final.

Science Magazine

While Connell had expressed a willingness to testify about what he knew concerning the '04 election, and the election website network he had created for Ohio's then-Sec. of State J. Kenneth Blackwell, he had become reticent after Rove had sent threats to Connell and his wife, according to tipsters.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Murray Handwerker became reticent when asked about the conflict with his brother, Mr. Handwerker said.

The New York Times

American sources say that in the latter years of the Bush administration, European agencies, worried that they might be caught up in America's abusive practices, became reticent about sharing intelligence.

The Economist

When invited to talk more particularly about his musical preferences, aims and hopes, he becomes reticent, repeating the sage old formula that "where words end, music begins". But he is firm and eloquent about the kind of preparation he does, which is exhaustive.

The New York Times - Arts

For a while, Yeldham says he was being invited to some of the world's biggest festivals, but the booking slowly dried up as he became reticent to play to the role of the sadomasochistic musician.

Vice

But it has become more reticent about foreign entanglements after the misadventure in Iraq and its casualties in Afghanistan.

The Economist

The Bank of England has previously identified the trend, warning that firms have become more reticent to commit to major expansion plans.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "become reticent" to describe a gradual shift in someone's behavior towards being less communicative, especially when the cause is a specific event or change in circumstances. It suggests a more thoughtful or deliberate choice to be less forthcoming, rather than simply being shy or introverted.

Common error

Avoid using "become reticent" as a synonym for simply being quiet. "Reticent" implies a holding back of information or feelings, often due to caution or distrust. If someone is naturally quiet, other terms like 'shy' or 'introverted' may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become reticent" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a process of change. It describes the action of someone transitioning into a state of being reserved or unwilling to communicate openly. Ludwig AI indicates that this is grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "become reticent" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the process of someone becoming reserved or unwilling to communicate openly. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While suitable for various contexts, it's most commonly found in news, academic, and scientific sources. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects a deliberate holding back of information or feelings, rather than simply being quiet. Alternatives include "grow silent" or "become withdrawn", depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey. The phrase carries a neutral tone and should not be confused with simply being shy or introverted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grow silent

Focuses on the act of becoming quiet.

become withdrawn

Emphasizes becoming less involved or connected.

become reserved

Highlights the adoption of a more formal or cautious demeanor.

become quiet

Simple and direct way of saying someone is less talkative.

clam up

Informal way of saying someone suddenly stops talking.

shut down

Indicates a complete cessation of communication or emotional expression.

fall silent

Emphasizes the action of silence taking over.

grow taciturn

Implies developing a habit of being uncommunicative.

turn inward

Suggests focusing on one's own thoughts and feelings rather than external communication.

lose one's voice

Metaphorically suggests a loss of the ability or willingness to express oneself.

FAQs

What does "become reticent" mean?

To "become reticent" means to grow or start to be reserved, quiet, or reluctant to speak freely, often holding back information or feelings.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "become reticent"?

It's appropriate when describing a change in someone's behavior where they start to hold back their thoughts or feelings, especially due to caution, distrust, or a specific event. For example, "After the incident, she "became reticent" about sharing her opinions".

What are some alternatives to "become reticent"?

Alternatives include "grow silent", "become withdrawn", or "become reserved". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "become reticent" formal or informal?

"Become reticent" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase suitable for academic, news, or professional contexts. Simpler alternatives might be preferred in informal settings.