Hesitated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
hesitated
[หhษzษชteษชtษชd ]
Definition
emotional response
To hesitate means to pause before taking an action or making a decision, often due to uncertainty or indecision. This behavioral response is common in situations where one feels doubt or fear. Hesitation can be a natural reaction when one is confronted with a difficult choice. In communication, it may indicate a lack of confidence or the need to consider various options before proceeding.
Synonyms
dither, falter, pause, vacillate, waver.
Examples of usage
- She hesitated before answering the question.
- He hesitated to take the leap of faith.
- They hesitated to commit to the project.
- I hesitated when asked to speak in public.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Indecision is often tied to fear of failure or negative judgment, leading to hesitation in choices.
- Research shows that overthinking can cause a cognitive overload, making people more likely to hesitate.
- Hesitation can act as a protective mechanism; it gives individuals time to assess risks before acting.
Pop Culture
- Commonly depicted in movies and TV shows, characters often hesitate before making important decisions to highlight their internal struggle.
- Hesitation has been a theme in songs, representing love and uncertainty, as seen in tracks like 'I Will Always Love You.'
- In video games, characters may hesitate before taking significant actions, allowing players to reflect on their choices.
Literature
- Hesitation often represents conflict in literature, showcasing a characterโs struggle to decide between two paths.
- Famous literary works, like Shakespeareโs 'Hamlet', depict characters who hesitate, reflecting their inner turmoil and complexity.
- Authors frequently use hesitation to build suspense, drawing readers in as they anticipate what the character will finally choose.
Sociology
- Cultural background plays a role in hesitation; in some societies, thereโs more pressure to conform, which can lead to indecision.
- Social situations often prompt people to hesitate as they consider the views of others before acting.
- Hesitation can be seen as a social signal, indicating uncertainty and inviting others to provide support or clarification.
Origin of 'hesitated'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'haesitare,' which means 'to stick' or 'to be at a standstill.'
- It entered English in the 14th century, originally appearing as 'hesitat,' which means to be undecided.
- Related words include 'hesitant' and 'hesitation,' showing how the root implies indecision.
The word 'hesitate' comes from the Latin verb 'haesitare', which means 'to stick' or 'to cling'. This Latin root reflects the sense of being in a state of indecision, as if one is stuck between choices. The word evolved through Old French 'hรฉsiter', which carried a similar meaning. By the late 14th century, it entered the English language with its current spelling and meaning. Over the centuries, it has been used in various contexts, often relating to emotional decision-making and the complexity of human choice. The notion of hesitation encompasses a wide range of experiences, from trivial decisions to significant life choices, making it a relevant concept in psychology and philosophy.