reticent to change

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reticent to change" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is hesitant or unwilling to embrace change or new ideas. Example: "Despite the numerous benefits of the new system, the team remained reticent to change their established processes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

So we see something like EQUIP – part of this is traditional higher ed is reticent to change; doesn't want to innovate.

TechCrunch

The fear of that unknown is what controlled our lives, making us complacent and reticent to change.

Vice

While some industries and employers have proactively tackled discrimination in the workforce, others have been reticent to change.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Romney, who "spent considerable time hammering out a sweeping climate change plan to reduce [Massachusetts'] greenhouse gas emissions," according to the Los Angeles Times, has been more reticent to address climate change in recent months.

Huffington Post

While reticent to call the changes a mistake, she now thinks it was "probably too much too soon".

The New York Times

"After BP's experience in the Gulf of Mexico, and in spite of it, many other oil companies were reticent to see significant changes to safe practices in other parts of the World.

Independent

While the Court didn't pronounce itself on that section, it will almost certainly make corporations reticent to take advantage of the changes, given the Court's newfound love for strict privacy rights.

Vice

That fact is notable given that both reporters and researchers have historically been reticent to link any one storm to climate change.

Huffington Post

But not reticent to talk.

The New York Times

The couple is clearly reticent to leave.

The Guardian

They were reticent to join us.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reticent to change", consider whether a more direct synonym like "reluctant" or "unwilling" would provide greater clarity and impact in your writing.

Common error

Be careful not to use "reticent" when you mean simply "reluctant". "Reticent" implies a shyness or reserve in expressing oneself about change, while "reluctant" suggests an unwillingness to change, regardless of expressiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reticent to change" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe someone or something that is hesitant or unwilling to embrace alterations or modifications. This hesitation might stem from shyness, fear, or a general resistance to novelty, as suggested by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reticent to change" effectively describes a hesitance or unwillingness to embrace alterations, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While grammatically sound, it's less common than synonyms like "reluctant" or "hesitant". Its usage leans towards neutral to formal contexts, appearing mainly in news and media, and scientific publications. When writing, consider whether a simpler synonym might enhance clarity. Remember, "reticent" implies a reserve in expressing concerns about change, not just a simple unwillingness. Although examples are limited, the phrase is valid and conveys a specific nuance of restrained reluctance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hesitant to change

Similar meaning with a slightly less formal tone; conveys a pause or delay before changing.

reluctant to change

Implies unwillingness or disinclination to change, often due to personal reasons or preference.

unwilling to change

Directly expresses a lack of willingness to change.

resistant to change

Suggests active opposition or struggle against change.

averse to change

Indicates a strong dislike or opposition to change.

disinclined to change

Expresses a lack of inclination or motivation to change.

opposed to change

Implies active disagreement with or resistance to change.

against changing

A more direct and less formal way of saying someone is opposed to change.

hesitant about changing

Focuses on the hesitation or uncertainty surrounding the act of changing.

cautious about changing

Emphasizes the careful and deliberate approach to change, due to potential risks or concerns.

FAQs

What does "reticent to change" mean?

The phrase "reticent to change" describes someone who is hesitant or unwilling to embrace changes or new ideas, often due to shyness, reserve, or a fear of the unknown.

What can I say instead of "reticent to change"?

You can use alternatives like "reluctant to change", "hesitant to change", or "unwilling to change", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "reticent to change" or "reluctant to change"?

Both "reticent to change" and "reluctant to change" are grammatically correct, but "reluctant" is more common and generally easier to understand. "Reticent" adds a layer of formality and suggests a certain reserve or shyness.

How do I use "reticent to change" in a sentence?

Example: "Despite the clear benefits of the new system, many employees were "reticent to change" their established workflows." Always ensure the context implies a hesitation or unwillingness specifically related to change.