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.

"Serbia has an open path towards the European Union. However, Serbia must also decide where it stands. A policy of hesitation between Russia, China and Europe is not possible," German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 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

It's easy to imagine you would act rationally, morally and without hesitation but Should I Marry a Murderer?,

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

The language smooths out, the argument grows more confident, and the hesitation fades.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

Now a pro, Dad handled the needle with no hesitation.

From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas

Vocabulary lists containing hesitation

Unit 1: Telling Details

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Slam!

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