in reticence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in reticence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being reserved or restrained in expression or communication. Example: "She spoke in reticence, choosing her words carefully to avoid revealing too much."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

David: I'm a minority of one in the media in that I'm a big believer in reticence.

The New York Times

There is a very specific reason why Israel Rank has been shrouded in reticence and unspoken embarrassment.

The Guardian - Film

In her front-row seat at the Calvin Klein fall 2013 show in February, Bridget Foley was a study in reticence.

The New York Times

For a family that sees no particular virtue in reticence, it's odd that the two of them seem not to have discussed the matter at length.

The New Yorker

Now that she's in the exposed position of telling her own story rather than someone else's, she takes a certain refuge in reticence.

The New Yorker

Even her garb is a study in reticence: high-necked evening dresses and Armani suits the color of a Milanese fog.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Watch the video embedded above to hear about how TellApart's technology sets it apart from others in the field, how McFarland avoided the trap of becoming an "entrepreneur-in-reticence" in the early days of TellApart, the importance of the VC-founder relationship, and more.

TechCrunch

So he understands the levels of courtesy and the in-built reticence at losing face -- even in the face of the grand humiliation of surrender.

Huffington Post

Meanwhile, in Japan, reticence in this outwardly conservative society about shunga — literally "spring pictures" — is retreating.

BBC

This first novel is "beautiful in its reticence and insight," David Willis McCullough wrote here in 1998.

The New York Times - Books

The Pushkin, in contrast, remains tight-lipped, almost Soviet in its reticence.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in reticence" to convey a sense of deliberate holding back or understated expression, particularly where formality or a sense of decorum is present. For example, "The diplomat responded to the question in reticence, carefully choosing each word."

Common error

Avoid using "in reticence" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase is more suited to formal or literary contexts. Simpler alternatives like "being quiet" or "holding back" are often more appropriate in everyday speech.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in reticence" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by describing the manner in which an action is performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a state of reserve or restraint in expression. For example, "She spoke in reticence", where it modifies the verb "spoke".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in reticence" is grammatically sound and serves to describe a manner of speaking or acting that is reserved, understated, or intentionally withholding. While confirmed by Ludwig AI as appropriate in written English, it is most commonly found in news and media contexts, leaning towards a neutral or slightly formal register. When writing, consider whether the context truly calls for this level of deliberate restraint or if a simpler, more direct phrase would be more suitable. Remember to avoid overuse of "in reticence" in casual contexts and consider related phrases such as "in silence" or "in reserve" depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in silence

Replaces explicit communication with its absence; highlights the lack of speech rather than the reason behind it.

in hesitancy

Focuses on the delay or reluctance before acting or speaking, emphasizing the uncertainty involved.

in reserve

Implies a withholding of expression or emotion, suggesting something is held back intentionally.

in caution

Highlights the careful and guarded nature of the communication, emphasizing the avoidance of risk or indiscretion.

in restraint

Emphasizes the act of controlling one's emotions or expressions, suggesting a conscious effort to limit outward display.

in unwillingness

Focuses on the lack of desire or motivation to be forthcoming, suggesting resistance to sharing information.

in diffidence

Suggests shyness or a lack of self-confidence contributes to the reserved manner.

in reservation

Highlights the presence of doubts or hesitations influencing the manner of expression.

with reluctance

Indicates unwillingness or aversion to speaking or acting.

in aversion

Expresses a strong dislike or disinclination towards sharing or expressing something.

FAQs

How can I use "in reticence" in a sentence?

Use "in reticence" to describe someone behaving in a reserved or restrained manner, like: "She answered "in reticence", choosing her words carefully." It implies a deliberate holding back.

What are some synonyms for "in reticence"?

Alternatives include "in silence", "in hesitancy", or "in reserve", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "in reticence" or "with reticence"?

"In reticence" is a valid construction, emphasizing the state of being reserved. "With reticence" focuses more on the manner in which something is done. Both are grammatically acceptable, but "in reticence" is less common.

What's the difference between "in reticence" and "in reluctance"?

"In reticence" implies a holding back or understated expression, often due to formality or caution. "In reluctance" focuses on unwillingness or aversion. While there can be overlap, reluctance suggests a stronger negative feeling.