Unassurance

Unassurance is the state or quality of lacking confidence or certainty; a feeling of self-doubt or insecurity. It reflects a hesitation to trust in one's own abilities, knowledge, or decisions, often leading to wavering behavior and a diminished sense of conviction. This can stem from various sources, including past failures, external criticism, or an inherently cautious personality. Individuals experiencing unassurance may frequently seek validation from others and struggle to make independent choices, demonstrating a fragile sense of self.

Unassurance meaning with examples

• His unassurance was palpable during the presentation; his voice trembled, and he frequently glanced at the audience seeking approval. He fumbled with the slides, clearly demonstrating his lack of confidence in his own expertise, and the team noticed his wavering. He felt inadequate to handle questions.
• The actress displayed unassurance on the red carpet, repeatedly adjusting her dress and fidgeting with her hands. While being interviewed, her responses were hesitant, reflecting a clear lack of self-assuredness. She avoided direct eye contact, which indicated the pressure of all the cameras on her.
• Her unassurance about her cooking skills prevented her from experimenting with new recipes. Instead, she stuck to familiar dishes. The fear of failure overrode her desire to try, causing her to miss out on new culinary experiences that could have boosted her confidence in the kitchen.
• Despite her impressive academic record, her unassurance about her job prospects was evident. She endlessly revised her resume and practiced interviews, plagued by self-doubt about the hiring process. Even with her efforts she questioned her ability to secure employment after graduation.
• The unassurance of the newly appointed manager undermined the team's morale. His indecisiveness and constant need for reassurance from subordinates fostered a sense of instability and lack of trust in his leadership. He was not ready for the promotion.