demure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demure" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone, often a woman, who is reserved, modest, or shy in behavior or appearance. Example: "She wore a demure dress that complemented her gentle personality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I love that she's not a demure tennis starlet under the thumb of an all-powerful parent or coach.

The Guardian

NOT much about Texas is becoming or demure.

The Economist

The cheerleaders' sharp moves, brutal good looks and demure uniforms caused a collective swoon among Southerners during the games in Busan.

The Economist

It was really quite demure: the subjects were some distance from the camera and no prurient interest could plausibly have been stirred by the image.

The Economist

The contemporary First Ladies who adopt a more demure profile have drawn less criticism, but all of them have taken up various causes; some, like Jackie Kennedy, are now seen as having been canny backstage operators.For the Obamas, the scrutiny has been especially intense.

The Economist

Nevertheless, let me take this opportunity to remind conservatives of something William F Buckley once said:Truth is a demure lady, much too ladylike to knock you on your head and drag you to her cave.

The Economist

Even in Stockholm, in demure navy Armani, sitting on the king's right at the banquet for her Nobel prize in 1991, she looked beady.

The Economist

More demure Britons want to go to the theatre.Plenty of Londoners dislike the pedicabs.

The Economist

Yet at this week's buoyantly named "Super Return" conference, the mood among private-equity and sovereign-wealth types was unusually demure.

The Economist

Even the Iranian press took the liberty of touching up her picture to give her a more demure neckline.After a year of bureaucratic in-fighting, the new European External Action Service EEASS) formally came into being on January 1st.

The Economist

Spice girl Geri Halliwell sports her Union Jack T-shirt on top of a demure, black, ankle-length Saudi abaya.In Books and Arts a picture is captioned: "But wait till morning".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "demure" to describe a quiet, modest, and respectful behavior or appearance, particularly in formal or conservative contexts. Ensure the context aligns with the implied sense of propriety and reserve.

Common error

Avoid using "demure" to imply a lack of intelligence or capability. While it suggests modesty, it doesn't equate to weakness or lack of assertiveness. The term should focus on outward behavior, not inner strength.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "demure" is as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe a quality of being modest, reserved, or shy. As Ludwig AI explains, it's often used to depict a restrained and respectful demeanor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "demure" functions as an adjective that describes someone as quiet, modest, reserved, or serious. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. While generally positive, avoid using it to imply weakness. Its usage is common in News & Media as well as Encyclopedias. Alternatives include "modest", "reserved", and "shy". It's essential to consider the context to ensure the term's implication aligns with the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Modest

Indicates simplicity and humility in behavior and appearance, lacking ostentation.

Reserved

Suggests a restrained and private demeanor, not readily expressing feelings or opinions.

Shy

Implies a timid and introverted nature, often feeling uncomfortable in social situations.

Retiring

Describes someone who avoids attention and prefers to be inconspicuous.

Diffident

Indicates a lack of self-confidence and hesitancy in asserting oneself.

Coy

Suggests a flirtatious shyness, often feigned to attract attention.

Unassuming

Indicates a modest and humble attitude, without arrogance or pretension.

Self-effacing

Describes someone who tends to downplay their own achievements and qualities.

Subdued

Implies a quiet and restrained manner, often due to sadness or seriousness.

Gentle

Describes someone kind and considerate manner, avoiding harshness or aggression.

FAQs

How can I use "demure" in a sentence?

You can use "demure" to describe someone's behavior or appearance, for example: "She presented a "demure" smile" or "Her "demure" mannerisms impressed the elders".

What are some synonyms for "demure"?

Alternatives to "demure" include "modest", "reserved", and "shy". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe a man as "demure"?

While traditionally used to describe women, "demure" can technically describe a man if he exhibits quiet, modest, and reserved behavior. However, be mindful that using it for men might sound unusual, and alternative words like "reserved" or "unassuming" might be more suitable.

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

"Demure" implies genuine modesty and reserve, while "coy" suggests a flirtatious or affected shyness. "Coy" often involves an intention to attract attention, whereas "demure" is generally more sincere.