self-distrust

noun

Definition of self-distrustnext
as in diffidence

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-distrust
  1. diffidence
  2. insecurity
  3. self-doubt
Noun
  • Celik seems attuned to such questions as a valid (if not necessarily revelatory) core for a play to circle around, but Cramer’s writing often feels caught between an exploration of comic diffidence and simply an expression of it.
    — Sara Holdren, Vulture, 30 Mar. 2026
  • And that eye could see past Dorothy’s drab uniform and Cindy Brady pigtails, her tall girl’s diffidence and her sweet girl’s shyness, to the bombshell smoldering underneath.
    — Lili Anolik, Vanity Fair, 12 Jan. 2026
Definition of diffidence
Noun
  • The deeper story here is growing domestic insecurity — inside both China and the US — that’s shaping diplomatic efforts and pulling both countries deeper into their own corners.
    — Andy Browne, semafor.com, 11 Aug. 2026
  • Online, influencers in the looksmaxxing space have leveraged other men's insecurities to enormous fame while doling out aesthetic advice with little, if any, credentials.
    — Charles Trepany, USA Today, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of insecurity
Noun
  • Riddick, who teaches as an adjunct professor while searching for a long-term role, says the process can fill even the most confident individuals with self-doubt.
    — Zulekha Nathoo, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Summary The pervasive inner critic often sabotages career success by fostering self-doubt and imposter syndrome.
    — Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of self-doubt
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Browse Nearby Words

self-disgust
self-distrust
self-distrustful
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Cite this Entry

“Self-distrust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-distrust. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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