diffident crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "diffident," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers and explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately. Find the perfect fit for your grid below!
Solutions for "diffident crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SHY: Lacking confidence; easily embarrassed.
5 Letters
TIMID: Showing a lack of courage or confidence.
7 Letters
BASHFUL: Reluctant to draw attention to oneself; shy.
8 Letters
RESERVED: Keeping one's thoughts and feelings to oneself.
INSECURE: Lacking self-confidence or assurance.
More About "diffident crossword clue"
"Diffident" is a rich word that often appears in crossword puzzles to test a solver's vocabulary around personality traits and emotions. It directly means modest or shy because of a lack of self-confidence. When you encounter this clue, think about synonyms that convey a sense of hesitation, humility, or even fear in social situations.
The beauty of crossword clues like "diffident" is their versatility. Depending on the puzzle's theme or the specific nuances the constructor wishes to convey, the answer could range from a simple, direct synonym to a more abstract concept related to diffidence. Always consider the letter count and intersecting letters to narrow down the possibilities. Understanding the core meaning of "diffident" — a quiet lack of self-assurance — will guide you to the correct solution.
This clue can often be tricky because while direct synonyms like SHY or TIMID are common, clues can also point to characteristics that stem from diffidence, such as being QUIET or HESITANT. Always cross-reference with other completed words in your grid to confirm your answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms & Antonyms: For words like "diffident," immediately brainstorm synonyms (like shy, timid, reserved) and sometimes even antonyms if the clue uses a contrasting phrase (e.g., "Not diffident").
- Consider Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. Use the answer sections on sites like ours to quickly filter by length.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the clue will give a specific scenario or phrase that helps pinpoint the exact synonym. "Diffident, say" might indicate a more common or shorter answer.
- Cross-Reference: Always use intersecting letters from other solved clues to confirm your "diffident" answer. A single wrong letter can derail an entire section of your puzzle.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "diffident" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'diffident' typically points to words indicating shyness, a lack of confidence, or timidity. It suggests a character who is reserved or hesitant in their actions or words.
How many letters does the answer to "diffident crossword clue" usually have?
Answers for 'diffident' can vary significantly in length depending on the specific puzzle. Common solutions range from short words like SHY (3 letters) to longer ones such as BASHFUL (7 letters) or RESERVED (8 letters), and even longer options like APPREHENSIVE (12 letters).
Are there common synonyms for "diffident" used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms frequently used as answers for 'diffident' include TIMID, SHY, BASHFUL, RESERVED, and INSECURE. Knowing these related terms can greatly assist in solving clues involving this word.