What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bashful
Example
She became bashful when all eyes were on her during the presentation. [bashful: adjective]
Example
He gave a bashful smile and looked away. [bashful: adjective]
coy
Example
She gave him a coy smile and looked down. [coy: adjective]
Example
He was being coy about his plans for the weekend. [coy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bashful is more commonly used than coy in everyday language. Bashful is a straightforward term to describe someone who is shy or easily embarrassed, while coy has a more specific connotation of playfulness or flirtation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bashful and coy?
Both bashful and coy can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, bashful is generally considered more neutral and can be used in a wider range of situations, while coy may have a slightly more informal or flirtatious tone.
