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Hesitate: meaning, definitions and examples

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hesitate

 

[ ˈhɛzɪˌteɪt ]

Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

indecision

To pause before deciding or acting, often out of uncertainty or reluctance.

Synonyms

delay, flounder, pause, waver

Examples of usage

  • She hesitated before answering the question.
  • Don't hesitate to call me if you need help.
  • If you hesitate now, you may miss your chance.
Context #2 | Verb

speech

To speak with pauses or interruptions, usually due to uncertainty or nervousness.

Synonyms

falter, mumble, stammer, stutter

Examples of usage

  • She hesitated while giving her speech.
  • The politician hesitated before making his statement.
Context #3 | Verb

action

To hold back or be slow in acting, often due to fear or doubt.

Synonyms

dither, equivocate, procrastinate, vacillate

Examples of usage

  • He hesitated to jump into the cold water.
  • Don't hesitate to take the necessary steps to achieve your goals.

Translations

Translations of the word "hesitate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hesitar

🇮🇳 हिचकिचाना

🇩🇪 zögern

🇮🇩 ragu-ragu

🇺🇦 вагатися

🇵🇱 wahać się

🇯🇵 ためらう

🇫🇷 hésiter

🇪🇸 dudar

🇹🇷 tereddüt etmek

🇰🇷 망설이다

🇸🇦 تردد

🇨🇿 váhat

🇸🇰 váhať

🇨🇳 犹豫

🇸🇮 oklevati

🇮🇸 hika

🇰🇿 күдіктену

🇬🇪 ერყევა

🇦🇿 tərəddüd etmək

🇲🇽 dudar

Word origin

The word 'hesitate' originated from the Latin word 'haesitare', which means 'to stick fast or cling to'. Over time, it evolved to its current meaning of indecision or reluctance to act. The concept of hesitation has been explored in various literary works, highlighting its significance in human behavior and decision-making processes.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,241 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.