Definitions

hesitation

[hez-i-tey-shuhn] / ˌhɛz ɪˈteɪ ʃən /

NOUN

waiting; uncertainty

Synonyms

STRONGEST

doubt equivocation hesitancy indecision misgiving mistrust pause procrastination qualm reluctance skepticism unwillingness vacillation

STRONG

dawdling delay demurral dubiety faltering fluctuation indecisiveness indisposition irresolution oscillation scruple wavering

WEAK

averseness delaying fumbling hemming and hawing stammering stumbling stuttering

Antonyms

STRONGEST

belief certainty confidence faith trust

WEAK

eagerness go perseverance sureness

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.

"This player is from one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Haiti. He plays with instinct because he learned early that hesitation costs you everything," said Midy.

From BBC • Jun. 13, 2026

I cant be the only one,” she mused, but expressed hesitation about pursuing any action.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

"For the blood of the martyrs, sing the national anthem with firmness and without hesitation," read one placard.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

I think it starts from the same thing that inspired my own hesitation to declare the frozen trucker case absurd when I first heard about it.

From Slate • May 13, 2026

My hesitation cost me the element of surprise as he spotted me and redoubled his efforts to free himself.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

Vocabulary lists containing hesitation

Unit 1: Telling Details

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Catching Fire

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Slam!

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