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tentative

[ten-tuh-tiv] / ˈtɛn tə tɪv /




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.

Again, she looked tentative against New Zealand's seamers, who exploited the conditions perfectly after captain Kerr did not hesitate in choosing to bowl first.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

Focus is on a meeting between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping amid tentative optimism that this could lead to progress on trade and the Iran war.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

The two leaders' last meeting produced a tentative trade truce after a frenzy of tit-for-tat tariffs in 2025.

From Barron's • May 12, 2026

SYDNEY—The Australian government’s latest budget contains tentative steps toward long-awaited economic reform, while providing cost-of-living relief and boosting fuel security as the Iran war threatens international supply.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 12, 2026

Her voice, she knew, was an old person’s voice now, too soft sometimes, too tentative.

From "Son" by Lois Lowry




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