reticence
What does "reticence" mean?
Reticence refers to the quality of being reserved, restrained, or disinclined to speak freely. It carries the mental image of someone who is holding back their thoughts or emotions, not necessarily out of shyness, but often as a deliberate choice to remain private or cautious. In professional or social settings, it is often used to describe someone who is "tight-lipped" or hesitant to share information. While it can imply a lack of communication, it is usually viewed as a neutral or even dignified trait, suggesting a sense of self-control rather than a simple inability to express oneself.
"reticence" in conversation
Discussing a colleague
Do you think Mark is hiding something about the merger?
Do you think Mark is hiding something about the merger?
I wouldn't say that. He’s just known for his reticence in board meetings.
I wouldn't say that. He’s just known for his reticence in board meetings.
Reticence is used here to describe a professional, guarded demeanor.
Asking for an opinion
You've been very quiet about the plan. Any thoughts?
You've been very quiet about the plan. Any thoughts?
Forgive my reticence, but I’m not sure we have all the facts yet.
Forgive my reticence, but I’m not sure we have all the facts yet.
Used as a polite way to explain why someone is not participating in a discussion.
"reticence" in a sentence
His reticence during the interview made the recruiters nervous.
His reticence during the interview made the recruiters nervous.
Despite her usual reticence, she spoke up passionately when the topic of animal rights was raised.
Despite her usual reticence, she spoke up passionately when the topic of animal rights was raised.
The author is famous for his reticence regarding his personal life, rarely granting interviews to the press.
The author is famous for his reticence regarding his personal life, rarely granting interviews to the press.
