unforthcoming

Imagine you ask your friend about their new job, but they just shrug and change the subject. That is someone who is unwilling to offer details or be open about something. It does not necessarily mean they are hiding anything bad; they may simply prefer to keep things private. A witness in a courtroom might be described this way if they hesitate to answer questions directly. Sometimes people act like this because they are shy, embarrassed, or do not want to share personal information. It is the opposite of being open and communicative. Think of it like a closed book: you have to work hard to find out what is inside.

"Unforthcoming" describes someone who is reluctant to provide information, often because they are secretive, reserved, or distrustful. It suggests a lack of openness or willingness to share details, even when asked directly. The word comes from the idea of "coming forth"—stepping forward and offering something. If someone is unforthcoming, they aren't stepping forward with information; they are holding back.

It's more than just being quiet. Someone can be naturally introverted without being unforthcoming. The term implies a more deliberate withholding of information. For example, a politician might be described as unforthcoming if they avoid answering tough questions from reporters, or a suspect in a police investigation might be unforthcoming with details about their whereabouts.

Context is everything. A child might be unforthcoming about breaking a vase because they fear punishment, while an author might be unforthcoming about the ending of a novel in order to build suspense. Beyond people and conversation, the word can also describe something that is not provided when expected. For instance, if promised financial support or expected help never arrives, that support can be called unforthcoming. Whether it is an evasive person or expected help that does not appear, "unforthcoming" suggests something is being held back instead of openly given.