Hesitance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hesitance

[หˆhษ›zษชtษ™ns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

lack of confidence

Hesitance refers to the state of being uncertain or undecided, often accompanying a lack of confidence in making a decision. It can manifest as a delay in action or speech due to doubts or apprehensions. This emotional or mental pause can significantly impact decision-making processes.

Synonyms

doubt, indecision, uncertainty, vacillation.

Examples of usage

  • Her hesitance to speak in public was evident.
  • He showed hesitance before making the final choice.
  • The team's hesitance affected their performance.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Hesitance often arises from fear of making a wrong choice, as it triggers anxiety about consequences.
  • Studies show that people who experience hesitance may face decision paralysis, where overthinking prevents any choice.
  • Understanding the reasons behind hesitance can help individuals boost their confidence in decision-making.

Literature

  • Hesitance is a common theme in literature, symbolizing internal conflict and character development.
  • Novelists often use it to build suspense, as characters weigh their options before taking action.
  • Classic stories frequently depict hesitance as a moment before significant change or revelation.

Everyday Life

  • People often feel hesitance in situations like job interviews, where pressure to perform can lead to a lack of confidence.
  • Choosing a place to eat can bring about hesitance, as eaters crave both comfort in their decision and the desire for something new.
  • In friendships, hesitance might occur when deciding to share personal feelings, highlighting the importance of trust.

Pop Culture

  • Hesitance is depicted in many movies, where characters often struggle to make critical choices, adding drama to the plot.
  • Reality shows often highlight the theme of hesitance as contestants decide between alliances or risks to win challenges.
  • Musical lyrics frequently explore the theme of hesitance in love, showcasing the complexities of relationships.

Origin of 'hesitance'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hesitance' comes from the Latin word 'haesitare', meaning 'to stick or pause'.
  • It evolved in English around the mid-19th century, influenced by the word 'hesitant'.
  • The prefix 'hes-' indicates a state of being puzzled or uncertain.

The word 'hesitance' originates from the Latin word 'haesitare', meaning 'to stick' or 'to hesitate'. It evolved through the Old French 'hรฉsiter', which referred to being indecisive or wavering. In English, 'hesitance' began to appear in texts in the mid-20th century, emphasizing the concept of uncertainty and a lack of determination when faced with a decision. The word reflects a common human experience, encapsulating the struggle many individuals face when deciding among various options.