with due diffidence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with due diffidence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a sense of hesitation or modesty in presenting an opinion or idea. Example: "With due diffidence, I would like to suggest an alternative approach to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Instead they are, with due diffidence, to be offered a view about epistemology, and a view about ethics.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

They did it with due care.

The Economist

It doesn't comport with due process.

The New York Times

Known for obsession with due diligence, efficiency.

Forbes

"Bob Goreham," he adds, with a diffidence he surely intends to be charming.

The New Yorker

The e-mails and letters that emanated from Royston blended formality with faux diffidence.

The New Yorker

Mr. Harper, a nonprofessional actor, plays a version of himself with shrewd diffidence, leaving many of Shannon's emotions and motives half-buried in slow gestures and enigmatic expressions.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, multiple authorship, together with apparent diffidence on the part of the editors, means that several important questions are left unanswered.

The Economist

Obama may have assisted his adversaries with the diffidence and lack of affect he displayed in Denver about the plight of American workers.

The New York Times

The "art-making iconoclasm" that he, with some diffidence, calls Jewish - does it apply only to the visual?

The Guardian - Books

"I know it sounds corny," Rather says, with uncommon diffidence for a Texan, "but I've been extraordinarily lucky.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the context warrants a display of modesty or deference. Overusing the phrase can make you appear insincere or overly cautious.

Common error

Avoid using "with due diffidence" in situations where confidence is expected. It can undermine your authority if used inappropriately. Use "with all due respect" or other alternatives that are more direct in neutral contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with due diffidence" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action is performed. It expresses a sense of hesitation or modesty when introducing an idea or opinion, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "with due diffidence" is an adverbial phrase used to express a sense of hesitation or modesty when introducing an idea or opinion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While its usage is rare, it is most commonly found in News & Media contexts, signaling a formal and professional tone. Related phrases include "with all due respect" and "with appropriate hesitation". When using this phrase, remember to consider the context and avoid overuse to maintain sincerity and avoid undermining your authority. Understanding these nuances will help you use "with due diffidence" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with all due respect

Expresses a polite disagreement or reservation, focusing on showing respect.

with appropriate hesitation

Highlights the pause or reluctance in expressing something.

with necessary modesty

Emphasizes humility when offering a thought or suggestion.

humbly suggesting

Directly indicates a humble approach in making a suggestion.

if I may be so bold

Acknowledges a potential risk of being presumptuous.

if I may venture to say

Shows a tentative and cautious way of expressing an opinion.

with some trepidation

Indicates a sense of fear or anxiety in expressing something.

tentatively proposing

Suggests an idea that is not fully formed or certain.

with a degree of reluctance

Shows unwillingness to share something.

hesitantly offering

Implies uncertainty or doubt about the idea being offered.

FAQs

What does "with due diffidence" mean?

It means to express something with appropriate hesitation or modesty, especially when presenting a differing opinion or idea.

How can I use "with due diffidence" in a sentence?

You might say, "With due diffidence, I believe there may be a more efficient way to approach this problem." This shows politeness and respect while offering an alternative.

What can I say instead of "with due diffidence"?

Alternatives include "with all due respect", "humbly suggesting", or "with appropriate hesitation", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "with due diffidence" or "with all due respect"?

"With due diffidence" emphasizes your hesitation or modesty, while "with all due respect" primarily conveys politeness and acknowledgment of the other party's position. Choose the phrase that best fits the specific context and your intention.