Guardedness

Guardedness is the state or quality of being cautious and reserved in one's behavior, speech, or actions. It often involves a reluctance to reveal personal information, express true feelings, or take unnecessary risks. This protective stance can stem from a variety of factors, including past experiences, fear of vulnerability, or a desire to maintain control. The level of guardedness can vary significantly from person to person and across different situations, reflecting an individual's comfort and perceived safety.

Guardedness meaning with examples

• After being betrayed by a close friend, Sarah developed a strong sense of guardedness. She became reluctant to trust new people and kept her emotional distance, carefully scrutinizing the intentions of those around her before revealing any personal details, in any form. Her guardedness made it hard for her to form new, intimate relationships, impacting her friendships.
• The diplomat's guardedness during the press conference was evident in his carefully chosen words and evasive answers. He avoided making any definitive statements, instead opting for vague generalities to protect his country's interests. His restrained demeanor signaled a strategic effort to maintain neutrality and safeguard sensitive information, despite the press's best efforts.
• When dealing with the complex legal situation, the CEO displayed a level of guardedness; unwilling to discuss certain elements with investors until the outcome was finalized. His reluctance to share all the information demonstrated a concern for minimizing potential damage to the company's reputation and protecting its position. This reflected calculated risk management.
• The elderly woman's guardedness was palpable as she cautiously opened the door to the stranger, keeping her distance and watching for any signs of aggression. Having experienced many things, she instinctively knew that her protective attitude could also be a danger. Her actions stemmed from years of accumulated experience, and a desire for safety, and security.