Schüchternheit

shyness, bashfulness

noun SHUE-khtern-hite Rare

Usage Note

Schüchternheit is the most common noun for shyness; it describes a reticent, easily embarrassed nature. Unlike mere Scheu (diffidence), it suggests a settled personality trait. Schüchternheit überwinden (to overcome shyness).

Examples

"Ihre Schüchternheit machte es ihr schwer, in Gruppen das Wort zu ergreifen."

Natural Translation

Her shyness made it hard for her to speak up in groups.

Literal Translation

Her shyness made it her difficult, in groups the word to take.

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