we are timid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are timid" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a group of people who are shy, hesitant, or lacking in confidence. Example: "In discussions about our future plans, we often find that we are timid in expressing our ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If we are timid, we would wait for decades before having the temerity to go forward with our discoveries.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

They are more experienced and we were timid at the beginning but we created some chances.

The Guardian - Sport

The opening match is a bit like a cup final and we were timid.

The Guardian - Sport

"At first we were timid, because we had never been involved in any political movement before," Serkan Gönüs, 42, explained.

The Guardian

The opening tie is always tricky and we were timid in the opening quarter of the game.

The Guardian - Sport

("After all the chest-thumping, and commitment of America to avenge what happened and to capture Osama bin Laden, we were timid — to say the least — at Tora Bora, and in our response," Kerry told me).

The New Yorker

At first we were timid about asking each other things like, "Hey, has your cycle stopped yet?" But nothing was off limits after that.

Vice

But we don't approve, and are timid, delicate and ante-bellum.

The New Yorker

All are timid.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mice are timid.

The New York Times - Books

Opera producers are timid, he said.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are timid" when describing a group's hesitancy or lack of confidence in a specific situation, particularly when the context involves potential risk or confrontation.

Common error

Avoid using "we are timid" when the situation calls for displaying confidence or assertiveness. In such scenarios, opt for phrases that convey determination and resolve instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are timid" functions as a statement expressing a collective state of being. It describes a group's disposition as lacking courage or confidence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, with examples showing its use in describing initial hesitation before overcoming fears.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are timid" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe a group's lack of courage or confidence. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's important to consider the context and potential negative connotations when choosing to use this phrase. More assertive language may be more appropriate depending on the situation. It is most commonly found in news and media, with usage also noted in wiki and formal business contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we lack courage

Replaces "timid" with a more direct term for lack of bravery.

we are hesitant

Focuses on the reluctance to act, similar to being timid.

we are unassertive

Highlights the lack of forcefulness in expressing opinions or taking action.

we are apprehensive

Emphasizes a feeling of anxiety or fear about possible future events.

we are fearful

Directly states the presence of fear, a core component of timidity.

we are reserved

Indicates a cautious and restrained approach.

we are diffident

Emphasizes a lack of self-confidence, leading to shyness and timidity.

we are shrinking violets

Uses an idiomatic expression to describe extreme shyness and timidity.

we are playing it safe

Focuses on avoiding risks, a behavior associated with timidity.

our approach lacks boldness

Shifts the focus to the approach or strategy, rather than the people themselves.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we are timid" to sound more assertive?

Consider using phrases like "we are determined", "we are resolute", or "we are committed" to project a stronger stance.

Is it appropriate to use "we are timid" in a professional setting?

While grammatically correct, "we are timid" might convey a lack of confidence. In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "we are cautious" or "we are reserved" to maintain a professional tone.

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

It indicates that the speaker and their group are hesitant, shy, or lacking in courage or confidence in a particular situation. They might be afraid to take risks or express their opinions forcefully.

Are there any synonyms for "we are timid" that suggest a more positive attribute?

Yes, depending on the context, "we are prudent" or "we are circumspect" can be used to imply carefulness and thoughtfulness rather than fearfulness.