reticent
RET-ih-sunt
/ˈrɛtɪsənt/
Hesitant or reluctant to reveal one's thoughts, feelings, or personal matters.
Refers to a purposeful restraint regarding specific information or topics.
The story behind the word. From Latin reticere, where re- adds an intensive meaning to tacere ('to be silent'). It describes holding back speech deliberately when prompted.
Word relationships
- guarded: Implies cautious, protective restraint against revealing secrets.
- secretive: Carries a stronger negative connotation of hiding things dishonestly.
- forthcoming: Willing and eager to divulge information and talk open-heartedly.
- candid: Frank, direct, and unreserved in speech.
Commonly confused with
- reluctant: Reluctant means unwilling to take any action; reticent means specifically unwilling to speak.
Word family
- reticence (noun): The quality of being reticent; reserve.
- reticently (adverb): In a reticent manner.
Collocations
- reticent about
- remained reticent
- surprisingly reticent
- reticent tone
Idioms & expressions
- keep tight-lipped
- hold one's tongue
Example sentences
- "The CEO was reticent about discussing the details of the merger before the board meeting." Corporate communication
- "She was reticent about her childhood, preferring to focus on her current achievements." Personal relationship
Memory hook
RETI-CENT: A reticent person won't give you even a 'cent' of information. Holding back information cents.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'reluctant' in general (e.g., reluctant to eat vegetables); reticent specifically applies to speech or expression.
Fun facts
- In usage guides, 'reticent' is often noted as the most frequently misused word when people mistakenly write 'reticent to do something' instead of 'reluctant to do something'.
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