Translation guide
Expressing that an action is done in a shy, nervous, or hesitant manner. Japanese uses adverbs, mimetic words, and descriptive phrases to convey timidity.
Describe an action done with hesitation or lack of confidence due to shyness.
Mimetic adverb describing nervous, hesitant behavior, often with visible unease.
He entered the room timidly.
Mimetic adverb for acting fearfully or hesitantly, often due to intimidation.
She asked a question timidly.
Mimetic adverb for fidgeting or acting shyly, often from embarrassment.
The child was too shy to greet and fidgeted timidly.
Mimetic adverb for being nervous or jumpy, often from fear of consequences.
He reported to his boss timidly, afraid of the reaction.
Adverb for doing something fearfully, as if scared of the outcome.
He opened the door timidly.
Express that someone speaks or acts without confidence, often quietly or indirectly.
Adverbial phrase meaning 'with restraint' or 'hesitantly', showing consideration for others.
He expressed his opinion timidly.
Adverb meaning 'modestly' or 'reservedly', often used for quiet, unassertive behavior.
She smiled timidly.
Literally 'in a small voice', used when someone speaks quietly due to shyness.
Describe an action done without bravery, often avoiding confrontation or risk.
おどおど emphasizes visible nervousness and awkwardness. おずおず implies fear of a superior or intimidating situation. もじもじ is often used for shy, fidgety behavior, especially in social situations.
I acted timidly during the interview.
He approached the teacher timidly.
She gave the present timidly, fidgeting.
He said 'Excuse me' timidly in a small voice.