Diffident
hardDIF-ih-dunt
adjective
Definition
Modest or shy because of a lack of self-confidence
Examples
“The diffident student rarely spoke up in class.”
“Despite his accomplishments, he remained diffident about his abilities.”
Categories
GRE Tip
Diffident is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "timid" or "reticent" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "confident".
Related GRE Words
unpretentious
Not attempting to impress others with importance or status; modest
taciturn
Reserved or uncommunicative in speech; saying little
reserved
Slow to reveal emotion or opinions; reticent
uncommunicative
Unwilling to talk or give out information
reticent
Not revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily; reserved
garrulous
Excessively talkative, especially on trivial matters
Master diffident and 800+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.