self-effacing
Say it: self-ih-FAY-sing /ˌsɛlfɪˈfeɪsɪŋ/ · adjective
What “self-effacing” means
Avoiding attention or praise for yourself.
More precisely: Not claiming attention or credit for yourself; modest.
Example: “Self-effacing as ever, she thanked her team for a deal she closed alone.”
When to use it
When someone plays down their contribution or directs praise towards others. Usually a compliment, though it can suggest excessive modesty.
Similar words
modest, humble, retiring
Quick check
After creating the winning design, Ravi steps aside and insists that everyone applaud his helpers instead. He's…
self-effacing or self-conscious?
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self-effacing
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