GRE Verbal Reasoning Practice Test

Diffident describes someone lacking self-confidence, often coming across as shy or unsure of themselves. This term highlights hesitation and self-doubt in how a person thinks about or presents their abilities, as in being diffident about giving a presentation.

Disabuse means to correct a mistaken belief, so it’s about removing a false idea rather than about confidence. Desultory refers to lacking a clear plan or purpose, not to how self-assured a person feels. Deride means to mock or ridicule someone, which involves others’ reactions rather than the person’s own confidence.