Hesitantly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hesitantly
[หhษzษชtษntli ]
Definition
Context #1 | Adverb
used to describe an action or behavior
In a hesitant manner; with uncertainty or indecision.
Synonyms
cautiously, doubtfully, reluctantly, tentatively, uncertainly.
Examples of usage
- She hesitantly approached the edge of the cliff.
- He hesitantly agreed to the proposal.
- They hesitantly entered the dark room.
- The child hesitantly raised their hand in class.
- We hesitantly followed the unfamiliar path.
- The dog hesitantly sniffed the new food.
- The actress hesitantly delivered her lines on stage.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Decision-making can be influenced by anxiety, leading individuals to act hesitantly when faced with choices.
- Hesitant behaviors are often linked to fear of failure or concern about making the wrong choice.
- Studies suggest that when people hesitate, they are trying to weigh potential risks and rewards.
Literature
- Hesitation is a common theme in literature, representing characters struggling with choices or moral dilemmas.
- Authors often use hesitant actions to build suspense or develop character depth in stories.
- Classic novels frequently depict protagonists hesitating at critical junctures to highlight their internal conflicts.
Pop Culture
- In films and TV shows, characters may act hesitantly to create tension or comedy, enhancing viewer engagement.
- The concept of hesitation has been explored in songs, often symbolizing love and indecision.
- Social media often showcases 'hesitant characters' to reflect relatable moments in daily life.
Communication
- Hesitant speech patterns, like pausing or using fillers (um, uh), can indicate uncertainty in conversations.
- Non-verbal cues, such as body language, often accompany hesitant speech, signaling a person's reluctance.
- In discussions, showing hesitation may lead to deeper exploration of thoughts, prompting a more thorough exchange.
Origin of 'hesitantly'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'hesitans', which means 'being in doubt or uncertainty'.
- It entered the English language in the early 19th century, reflecting the growing vocabulary of emotional expression.
- Derived from the word 'hesitate', it emphasizes the act of pausing before making a decision.
The word 'hesitantly' is derived from the verb 'hesitate', which comes from the Latin word 'hesitare', meaning 'to hesitate, to be undecided'. The adverb 'hesitantly' first appeared in the English language in the mid-18th century, evolving from the adjective 'hesitant'. It has been used to describe actions or behaviors done with uncertainty or indecision.