All 4 Uses of
reticent
in
Black Like Me
- The whites, especially the tourists, had no reticence before us, and no shame since we were Negroes.†
reticence = reluctance -- usually to speak freely
- I note these things because it is harrowing to see decent-looking men and boys assume that because a man is black they need show him none of the reticences they would, out of respect, show the most derelict white man.†
- I stared at my black hands, saw the gold wedding band and mumbled something meaningless, hoping he would see my reticence.†
reticence = reluctance -- usually to speak freely
- The youth knew me and had no reticence in talking...
*reticence = reluctance
Definition:
reluctant -- especially to speak freely
Synonym Comparison (if you're into word choice):
Consider using taciturn rather than reticent when the reluctance to speak is a general disposition rather than a short-term situation brought about by particular circumstance.
Consider using taciturn rather than reticent when the reluctance to speak is a general disposition rather than a short-term situation brought about by particular circumstance.