What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
timidity
Example
Her timidity prevented her from speaking up in class. [timidity: noun]
Example
He spoke with timidity, his voice barely above a whisper. [timidity: noun]
shyness
Example
Her shyness made it difficult for her to make friends. [shyness: noun]
Example
He was too shy to ask her out on a date. [shy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shyness is a more commonly used term than timidity in everyday language. Shyness is a familiar term that most people can relate to, while timidity is a less common and more formal term.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between timidity and shyness?
Timidity is a more formal term than shyness. It is often used in academic or professional contexts, while shyness is more commonly used in everyday conversation.
