we are shy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are shy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a feeling of shyness or timidity, often in a social context or when discussing personal traits. Example: "When meeting new people, we are shy and tend to keep to ourselves until we feel more comfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

We are shy and bold, freckled and pale, truckers and hairdressers, Buddhists and Presbyterians.

The New York Times - Health

About body image ("Why does [being a size zero] go hand in hand with the acting profession? It shouldn't"), about pay disparity ("Part of the reason equal pay is not in place is because we are shy to speak up. If we can get companies to publish [figures], we will be able to see for ourselves") about the whiteness of the film industry, and class, and feminism.

The Guardian - Film

In explaining "our" peccadilloes to my female friend, I was forced to face what I and other men dedicated to the cultivation of their online lives have become: we are shy people lashing out at perceived threats, be it mildly in the form of refusing invitations or virulently in the form of online retribution.

TechCrunch

I'm told by another Finn that "like the Japanese, we are shy and reserved" and don't like to talk about feelings.

Vice

I'm told by another Finn that "like the Japanese, we are shy and reserved" and don't like to talk about our feelings.

Vice

"We are shy to talk about periods, but they are a fact of life for 1 in 2 people, and feminine hygiene products are required for human dignity," added state Rep. Sherry Jones (D), the other sponsor of the bill.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

THE READER is a film that has sparked controversy and it is not something we are shying away from.

Huffington Post

We were shy. 1.

The New York Times - Magazine

For we were shy and awkward.

The New Yorker

We're shy, introverted, farm people".

Independent

We were shy, but we worked.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are shy", consider the specific context. If you mean a general tendency towards shyness, it's perfectly appropriate. However, if you're describing a temporary feeling in a specific situation, phrases like "we feel shy" might be more accurate.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "we are shy" is a fixed trait. Recognize that shyness can be situational. Instead of saying "we are shy, so we never participate", acknowledge the shyness but emphasize the potential for growth or adaptation: "We are shy, but we're working on becoming more assertive."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are shy" functions primarily as a descriptive statement about a group's disposition or character. It's an adjective phrase that identifies a shared personality trait. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are shy" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase used to describe a group's tendency to be reserved or timid, often in social settings. Ludwig highlights that while the phrase is acceptable, it's important to consider the context and whether it accurately reflects the group's feelings or behaviors. Alternatives like "we feel timid" or ""we are reserved"" may be more appropriate in some situations. Overall, use this phrase with awareness of its connotations and potential for overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we feel timid

Implies a lack of courage or confidence, similar to shyness but potentially encompassing a broader range of situations.

we are reserved

Suggests a more controlled and deliberate withholding of openness, often implying politeness or formality.

we lack confidence

Highlights the absence of self-assurance as the primary reason for holding back.

we are introverted

Focuses on a personality trait where one gains energy from solitude rather than social interaction, which can manifest as shyness in social settings.

we are bashful

Implies a childlike or innocent shyness, often associated with blushing or embarrassment.

we are reticent

Suggests a reluctance to speak or express oneself, often due to caution or a desire to avoid attention.

we are diffident

Implies a lack of self-confidence and a hesitance to assert oneself.

we are hesitant

Highlights the pause or delay in action or speech due to shyness or uncertainty.

we are withdrawn

Suggests a deliberate pulling back from social interaction due to shyness or other reasons.

we are demure

Implies a modest and reserved behavior, often associated with women and girls.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "we are shy"?

Saying "we are shy" generally means that a group of people feels timid or uncomfortable in social situations, particularly around strangers or in unfamiliar environments. It suggests a tendency to avoid attention or express oneself cautiously.

What can I say instead of "we are shy"?

You can use alternatives like "we feel timid", "we are reserved", or "we lack confidence" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "we are shy"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe a group's tendency toward shyness. The phrase is acceptable in most contexts, as shown by Ludwig.

How does being "introverted" relate to "we are shy"?

While not perfectly synonymous, introversion and shyness are related. Introversion is a personality trait where individuals gain energy from solitude, while shyness is a feeling of discomfort in social situations. An introverted group may express that "we are reserved" to explain their behaviors in a social context.