Words to use
reticent
/ˈret.ɪ.sənt/ · adjective
Unwilling to speak openly or readily.
Tone
Observant and neutral.
When it earns its place
Use reticent when...
Use it when someone holds back from speaking or revealing more.
Three natural examples
01He was reticent about what happened next.
02She is warm in person but reticent about her private life.
03The usually reticent witness offered one clear detail.
Watch the fit
When to choose another word
Reticent means reluctant to speak. It does not mean reluctant to act in general, although that broader use appears informally.
Common slip
Meaning is only half the job
Reticent is often confused with reluctant. Keep it close to speaking, sharing, or revealing.
Use it today
Notice a subject about which someone becomes reticent, and respect the boundary.
At the time you chose, Idiolect would remind you to say the sentence back. The AI assesses whether the word fits what you meant.
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