Hesitantly - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Hesitantly means acting with uncertainty or reluctance, often pausing before doing something due to doubt or nervousness. It describes a cautious or indecisive manner. Example: She answered hesitantly.
Definition:
Acting with uncertainty or reluctance; pausing before deciding or speaking.
Synonyms:
uncertainly, reluctantly, cautiously, indecisively
Part of Speech:
adverb
Antonyms:
confidently, decisively
Common Collocations:
speak hesitantly, move hesitantly, answer hesitantly
Derivatives:
hesitant, hesitation, hesitance
Usage Tips:
Use "hesitantly" to describe actions or speech showing doubt or reluctance, often with pauses or delays.
Common Phrases:
tread hesitantly, speak hesitantly, act hesitantly
Etymology:
Derived from Latin "haesitare," meaning to stick fast or hesitate; entered English via Old French "hesiter."
Examples:
- 1. She answered the question hesitantly, unsure of her response.
- 2. He walked hesitantly toward the unfamiliar door.
- 3. The child spoke hesitantly in front of the class.
- 4. She reached out hesitantly to touch the fragile object.