Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. DIFFIDENCE
meekness
Let's find the most appropriate synonym for the word DIFFIDENCE by understanding its meaning and comparing it with the given options.
Understanding the Meaning of DIFFIDENCE
The word DIFFIDENCE refers to the state of being shy or lacking in confidence. It describes a feeling of hesitancy and a lack of assertiveness, often stemming from a doubt in one's own abilities or worth.
Analyzing the Options for DIFFIDENCE Synonym
We need to examine each option to see which word shares the closest meaning with DIFFIDENCE.
- Option 1: confidence
Confidence is a feeling or belief that you can do something well or succeed at something. This is essentially the opposite of diffidence. - Option 2: courage
Courage is the ability to do something that frightens one; bravery. While lack of courage might sometimes coincide with diffidence, courage itself is not a synonym for diffidence. - Option 3: meekness
Meekness refers to the quality of being quiet, gentle, and submissive. A meek person often lacks assertiveness and may be easily imposed upon, which aligns closely with the lack of confidence and assertiveness implied by diffidence. - Option 4: boldness
Boldness is the willingness to take risks and be confident and courageous. This is clearly an antonym, not a synonym, for diffidence.
Identifying the Correct Synonym for DIFFIDENCE
Comparing the meanings, "meekness" most closely matches the core idea of lacking confidence and assertiveness inherent in DIFFIDENCE. While not identical, meekness describes a disposition often resulting from or associated with diffidence.
Therefore, the most appropriate synonym for DIFFIDENCE among the given options is "meekness".
| Word | Meaning | Relationship to DIFFIDENCE |
|---|---|---|
| DIFFIDENCE | Shyness; lack of confidence; hesitancy. | Main word |
| confidence | Belief in one's ability; self-assurance. | Antonym |
| courage | Bravery; ability to face fear. | Related but not a direct synonym |
| meekness | Quiet, gentle, submissive; lack of assertiveness. | Closest Synonym |
| boldness | Willingness to take risks; confidence. | Antonym |
Revision Table: Synonyms and Antonyms of DIFFIDENCE
| Word | Synonyms (Examples) | Antonyms (Examples) |
|---|---|---|
| DIFFIDENCE | Shyness, Hesitancy, Bashfulness, Timidity, Meekness, Reservation, Unassertiveness | Confidence, Boldness, Assurance, Assertiveness, Courage, Self-confidence, Egotism |
This table helps solidify our understanding of DIFFIDENCE and its related words.
Additional Information: Exploring related vocabulary
Understanding words like DIFFIDENCE involves recognizing subtle differences between similar terms. While DIFFIDENCE focuses on a lack of self-assurance leading to hesitation or shyness, meekness emphasizes submissiveness or gentleness, often a behavioral outcome of diffidence. Other related terms like 'timidity' directly relate to fear or shyness, while 'bashfulness' specifically refers to shyness due to modesty or embarrassment.
Important Questions from Synonyms or Antonyms
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Whether the rewards arein commensurate withthe efforts or not, a society will always have workaholics and the shirk workgroups.
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The audience thoroughly enjoyed thehilariousdrama.
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The writer’seruditionin science is revealed in every page of the book.
