hesitate

[hez-i-teyt] / ˈhɛz ɪˌteɪt /

VERB

wait; be uncertain

Synonyms

STRONGEST

balk dither falter pause ponder stumble waffle waver

STRONG

alternate balance dally debate defer delay demur dillydally doubt equivocate flounder fluctuate fumble hang hedge hover linger oscillate pussyfoot scruple seesaw shift shrink stammer stop straddle stutter swerve tergiversate vacillate weigh

WEAK

be irresolute be reluctant be unwilling blow hot and cold hang back hem and haw hold back hold off pull back shy away sit on fence think about think twice

Antonyms

STRONGEST

continue persist

STRONG

advance agree do well expedite face go go along hasten hurry meet remain rush stay

WEAK

attack carry on go ahead persevere resolve

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But the government faces steep obstacles to successfully prosecute either after this setback, and experts hesitate to predict what could happen next due to the cases' unprecedented nature.

From BBC

Retailers will be hoping their Black Friday deals attract shoppers, but tariffs have raised concerns that consumers with lower incomes may hesitate to spend against a backdrop of elevated inflation.

From MarketWatch

"We appreciate the concern that this may cause the local community. If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to speak to an officer."

From BBC

Although it provides valuable medical insight, many individuals hesitate to undergo the procedure because it requires extensive preparation and can feel invasive.

From Science Daily

So when asked whether she was more excited for the concert or the final round Saturday at Augusta National, she didn’t hesitate.

From Seattle Times

hesitate

Example Sentences

Related Words