Retinence

Retinence (from Latin *retinere*, "to hold back") describes the act of holding something back, whether it be information, an emotion, a response, or even a physical action. It implies a conscious decision to withhold, often for strategic reasons, to maintain privacy, or to avoid causing unwanted consequences. The duration of the holding back can range from a brief pause to a long-term concealment. This withholding is a deliberate choice, a strategic silence or inaction.

Retinence meaning with examples

• During the heated debate, she practiced Retinence, choosing to observe and analyze the arguments before offering her own perspective. This allowed her to assess the situation calmly and develop a more informed response, ultimately bolstering the strength of her opinion.
• His Retinence about his past, the carefully guarded secrets of his upbringing, made him seem mysterious. This deliberate withholding fostered an aura of intrigue, which many found captivating. Her withholding raised suspicion.
• The diplomat’s Retinence during the press conference concerning the ongoing negotiations was expected. Revealing even small details would be detrimental to the complex process, so the media were forced to remain unfulfilled.
• Knowing the consequences of sharing his plan with his rivals, the businessman showed Retinence, keeping his project hidden, only letting his most trusted partners know the secret until the correct moment.
• In an effort to appear more professional and collected, she showed Retinence during a challenging meeting. She refused to betray her mounting anxiety and instead, composed herself before she decided how to respond to her boss.
• Though asked many times about her plans, her reticence remained.