man of few words
Meaning
A man who speaks very little; someone who is quiet and not very talkative.
Origin
From the literal description “a man with few words,” used for centuries in English to praise or note someone’s quiet, restrained speech (valuing brevity and discretion).
Notes
Usually neutral or mildly positive (quiet, restrained, thoughtful). Depending on context, it can imply someone is hard to read or not communicative.
Examples
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My grandfather is a man of few words, but he always shows up when you need help.
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The new coach is a man of few words, so the team listens closely when he speaks.
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He’s a man of few words, yet his silence can be more reassuring than a long speech.
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She married a man of few words and learned to read his feelings in the small things he does.
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Don’t mistake him for being unfriendly—he’s just a man of few words.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used as a noun phrase: “a man of few words.” Can vary by gender/number (“a woman/person of few words,” “people of few words”). Article “a” is common when referring to one person.
Synonyms
- quiet
- taciturn
- reserved
- not much of a talker
Antonyms
- talkative
- chatty
- garrulous
- long-winded