What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reticent
Example
She was reticent about discussing her personal life with strangers. [reticent: adjective]
Example
The new employee was reticent during the team meeting, preferring to listen rather than speak. [reticent: adjective]
shy
Example
He's too shy to ask her out on a date. [shy: adjective]
Example
The little girl was shy around strangers and clung to her mother's hand. [shy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shy is more commonly used than reticent in everyday language. Shy is a versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of social discomforts, while reticent is a more specific term that is less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reticent and shy?
Both reticent and shy are considered formal words, but reticent is often used in more professional or academic contexts where precision of language is valued.
