Basic Details
Word: Shy
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Feeling nervous or uncomfortable in social situations; not wanting to talk to people or be noticed.
Synonyms: Timid bashful reserved
Antonyms: Outgoing confident bold
Idioms and Phrases
- Shy as a mouse: Used to describe someone who is extremely quiet and timid. Example: "In front of the crowd he was shy as a mouse barely speaking a word."
- Shy away from: To avoid something because it makes you nervous or uncertain. Example: "She tends to shy away from public speaking opportunities."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The shy girl stood at the back of the class quietly observing her classmates.
Example 2: When asked a question he felt too shy to raise his hand and answer.
Example 3: My brother is shy around new people but he becomes very talkative with his friends.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "shy" comes from the Old English word "sceoh" which means "to be afraid" or "to be cautious"? This highlights how shyness is often linked to feeling anxious in social situations.
Famous Quote
"The shy person likes to hide to be less seen; a great soul is always great in the crowd." - John F. Kennedy
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "shy" mean?
a) Not wanting to be noticed
b) Very energetic
c) Always friendly
d) Loud and boisterous
Answer: a) Not wanting to be noticed
2. Which of these is a synonym of "shy"?
a) Bold
b) Timid
c) Outgoing
d) Assertive
Answer: b) Timid
3. What is the opposite of "shy"?
a) Nervous
b) Reserved
c) Outgoing
d) Bashful
Answer: c) Outgoing
4. Which sentence describes someone who is shy?
a) She is always the centre of attention at parties.
b) He prefers to read a book instead of joining the conversation.
c) They love telling jokes to their classmates.
d) She enjoys meeting new people every day.
Answer: b) He prefers to read a book instead of joining the conversation.
5. Which idiom means to avoid something because of shyness?
a) Shy as a mouse
b) Shy away from
c) Move mountains
d) Break the ice
Answer: b) Shy away from
