noun
- plural of guardedness; the quality or state of being cautious, wary, or protective in manner or speech
Usage: typically used in formal or academic contexts; abstract noun; refers to multiple instances or aspects of the condition of being guarded
Examples
- The guardednesses of the two negotiators made progress difficult.
- Her guardednesses about personal matters were understandable given her past.
- The guardednesses displayed by the witnesses suggested they feared retaliation.
- Despite the guardednesses in the room, the mediator managed to facilitate dialogue.
- His guardednesses gradually diminished as he grew to trust his new colleagues.