The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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hesitant

adjective

/ˈhɛzɪt(ə)nt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of hesitant

Displaying a lack of confidence, uncertainty, or reluctance in one's actions, decisions, or responses.
"She felt hesitant about accepting the job offer because of the long commute."

Detailed meaning of hesitant

A hesitant individual may feel uncertain, doubtful, or indecisive, and may require more time or information before committing to a course of action. Hesitation can arise from a variety of reasons, including fear, anxiety, lack of confidence, or a desire to avoid making mistakes or causing harm. Hesitation can be a normal and healthy response in some situations, such as when considering important life decisions, but it can also lead to missed opportunities or regret if not managed effectively.

Example sentences containing hesitant

1. She was hesitant to try the new restaurant, as she had heard mixed reviews.
2. His hesitant demeanor indicated that he was not fully confident in his decision.
3. The student was hesitant to speak up in class, fearing they may say something wrong.
4. The actor was hesitant to take on the role, as it was very different from his usual characters.
5. The athlete was hesitant to return to the game after a previous injury.
6. The customer was hesitant to purchase the expensive item without first researching it thoroughly.

History and etymology of hesitant

The adjective 'hesitant' has its roots in the Latin word 'hesitare,' which means 'to hesitate' or 'to waver.' This Latin term conveys the idea of being uncertain or reluctant in one's actions or decisions. It is related to the notion of stalling or pausing before taking a step forward, indicating a lack of confidence or decisiveness. As 'hesitant' made its way into English, it retained its original sense of displaying a degree of uncertainty or reluctance in one's responses or choices. The etymology of 'hesitant' emphasizes the concept of pausing or wavering before making a decision or taking action, reflecting a state of mind marked by hesitation and a lack of immediate confidence.

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Further usage examples of hesitant

1. The driver was hesitant to take the unfamiliar route, as they were not confident in their directions.
2. The employee was hesitant to confront their boss about their workload, fearing it may lead to conflict.
3. The speaker was hesitant to share their personal story, but ultimately decided to do so to inspire others.
4. The child was hesitant to try new foods, but was encouraged by their parents to give it a chance.
5. The artist was hesitant to share their work, fearing it may not be well-received.
6. She was hesitant to voice her opinion during the heated debate.
7. His hesitant response indicated his uncertainty about the task.
8. The employee's hesitant approach to the project raised concerns.
9. The student was hesitant to ask questions in front of the class.
10. His hesitant handshake revealed his lack of confidence.
11. The team felt hesitant about accepting the risky proposal.
12. She appeared hesitant when asked to lead the presentation.
13. The hesitant driver cautiously navigated the unfamiliar road.
14. I sensed a hesitant tone in his voice when discussing the topic.
15. The hesitant actor stumbled over his lines during the performance.
16. Her hesitant smile suggested she was unsure of her welcome.
17. They were hesitant to invest in the volatile stock market.
18. The team's hesitant decision-making delayed the project.
19. His hesitant demeanor made it clear he needed more information.
20. The hesitant shopper couldn't decide which product to choose.
21. The politician gave a hesitant response to the challenging question.
22. The teacher encouraged hesitant students to share their thoughts.
23. The athlete's hesitant start cost him precious seconds in the race.
24. She felt hesitant about entering the dark, eerie forest.
25. The hesitant employee needed extra guidance to complete the task.