Reticent Meaning in English
word
ˈɹɛtɪsənt
RET-uh-sent
ɹˈɛtɪsənt
RET-uh-sent
Definition
Someone who is reticent is unwilling to talk or give information, often because they are shy or cautious.
Usage & Nuances
'Reticent' is formal and often describes quietness about personal feelings, opinions, or facts. Common with 'about' (reticent about...), it is not the same as 'reluctant' (unwilling in general). Avoid using it for physical silence—it's about sharing information.
Spanish: reservado - reticentePortuguese (BR): reservado - reticentePortuguese (PT): reservado - reticenteChinese (Simplified): 缄默的 - 沉默寡言的Chinese (Traditional): 緘默的 - 沉默寡言的Hindi: संकोची - अल्पभाषीArabic: كتوم - متحفظBengali: স্বল্পভাষী - অল্প কথায় কথা বলা (ব্যক্তি)Russian: сдержанный - скрытныйJapanese: 無口な - 控えめなVietnamese: kiệm lời - dè dặtKorean: 말이 적은 - 조심스러운Turkish: ketum - suskunUrdu: کم گو - محتاط (بات چیت میں)Indonesian: pendiam - enggan bicara
Example Sentences
He is very reticent about his childhood.
basic
Sarah is reticent when meeting new people.
basic
The witness remained reticent during the trial.
basic
She grew more reticent after the accident and rarely talked about her feelings.
natural
Whenever politics comes up, John becomes completely reticent.
natural
People say Mark is reticent, but he's just careful with his words.
natural