Basic Details
Word: Diffident
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Lacking confidence in oneself; shy or timid.
Synonyms: Hesitant, insecure, shy, self-effacing
Antonyms: Confident, self-assured, bold
Idioms and Phrases
- Playing coy: To act shy or modest, often to avoid drawing attention. Example: "She was playing coy during the presentation, even though her ideas were brilliant."
- Wallflower: A person who is shy and tends to remain on the sidelines at social events. Example: "He felt like a wallflower at the party since he didnt know anyone."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Despite her talent in dancing, she remained diffident and rarely stepped onto the stage.
Example 2: The diffident boy hesitated to speak up during the group discussion.
Example 3: His diffident nature made it difficult for him to make new friends at school.
Fun Fact
The word "diffident" comes from the Latin word "diffidere," which means "to distrust." This reflects the idea of lacking confidence or being hesitant to trust in one's abilities.
Famous Quote
"Fortune favours the bold." Virgil. This quote suggests that being confident and courageous leads to success, which contrasts with the notion of being diffident.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "diffident" mean?
a) Very happy
b) Brave and daring
c) Lacking confidence
d) Talkative
Answer: c) Lacking confidence
2. Which of these is a synonym of "diffident"?
a) Bold
b) Insecure
c) Cheerful
d) Outgoing
Answer: b) Insecure
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "diffident"?
a) Shy
b) Timid
c) Confident
d) Reserved
Answer: c) Confident
4. Which sentence uses "diffident" correctly?
a) The diffident girl boldly asked her teacher a question.
b) He was diffident and excited to perform in front of the audience.
c) The diffident student sat quietly in the corner, avoiding eye contact.
d) She felt diffident when she led the team to victory.
Answer: c) The diffident student sat quietly in the corner, avoiding eye contact.
5. Which idiom relates to being diffident?
a) Playing coy
b) Letting the cat out of the bag
c) Catching two birds with one stone
d) The early bird catches the worm
Answer: a) Playing coy
