Definition

Adverb: - In a shy, timid, or self-conscious manner, often characterized by downcast eyes, hesitation, or a reluctance to draw attention to oneself.

Usage

The adverb "bashfully" describes how an action is performed, specifically with shyness or modest reserve. It modifies verbs, typically those related to expression, movement, or interaction. - It is used to describe a person's demeanor when they feel embarrassed, coy, or overly modest. - It often conveys a sense of endearing or appealing shyness.

Examples

• She bashfully accepted the compliment, her cheeks turning pink.
• The child hid behind his mother and bashfully peeked at the visitors.
• He bashfully admitted that he had never ridden a bicycle before.

Advanced Usage

• "to say/ask/answer bashfully": To speak while displaying shyness or hesitation.
  • When asked about her achievement, she bashfully said it was a team effort.
• "to smile/look/glance bashfully": To express oneself with a shy or coy facial expression.
  • He bashfully glanced at her from across the room.

Variants and Related Words

• Bashful (adjective): Shy and easily embarrassed.
  • He was too bashful to speak in front of the large audience.
• Bashfulness (noun): The quality or state of being bashful.
  • Her bashfulness made her seem very charming.

Synonyms

• Shyly: In a nervous or timid way in the company of other people.
• Timidly: In a manner showing a lack of courage or confidence.
• Coyly: In a manner that is modestly or playfully reluctant, especially in a flirtatious way.
• Diffidently: In a manner lacking self-confidence; modestly or shyly due to a lack of self-trust.

Antonyms

• Boldly: In a confident and courageous manner.
• Assertively: In a confident and forceful way.
• Brashly: In a self-assertive, rash, or impudent manner.

Adverb

1. in a shy or timid or bashful manner
   • he smiled shyly