Tentative Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
tentative
[หtษntษtษชv ]
Definitions
in decision-making
not definite or certain; hesitant
Synonyms
hesitant, indecisive, uncertain.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tentative |
Tentative is suitable when you are unsure about something and want to emphasize a cautious approach. Often used for plans or agreements that are not yet final.
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| indecisive |
Indecisive has a negative connotation and describes someone who has difficulty making decisions. It implies a chronic inability to make up their mind.
|
| uncertain |
Uncertain can be used to describe a lack of certainty or confidence about a situation, fact, or outcome. It can describe both people and situations.
|
| hesitant |
Hesitant is best used when someone is slow to act due to a lack of confidence or uncertainty. It focuses more on the individual feeling rather than the situation.
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Examples of usage
- He gave a tentative smile, not sure if he should trust her.
- She made a tentative offer, waiting to see the response.
experimental
done without confidence; hesitant
Synonyms
experimental, provisional, trial.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tentative |
Used when describing an action or plan that is done as a test or experiment and is not certain or fixed. There is a sense of hesitation or uncertainty.
|
| experimental |
Applicable in scientific or technical contexts when trying out new ideas, methods, or procedures. It suggests a formal process of trial and error.
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| trial |
Often used in legal, medical, and commercial settings to describe a test or experimental period. It can also refer to a formal examination of evidence in a courtroom.
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| provisional |
Used when something is temporary and may change later. Often appears in contexts like agreements, measures, or plans that are not finalized.
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Examples of usage
- The company made a tentative approach to the new market.
- She took a tentative step towards her dream.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Being tentative in decision-making can stem from anxiety or fear of making the wrong choice.
- People often exhibit tentative behavior in unfamiliar situations, reflecting a natural instinct for caution.
Pop Culture
- In films, characters often display tentative behavior when faced with new relationships or dangerous situations, which builds suspense.
- Song lyrics sometimes use the word to express uncertainty in love or life decisions, resonating with many listeners.
Education
- Teachers may encourage tentative responses from students to foster open discussions and support explorative learning.
- In academic contexts, being tentative can be important for presenting hypotheses or theories that are not yet proven.
Social Dynamics
- In group settings, someone who appears tentative might be seen as less confident, affecting their leadership opportunities.
- Tentative communication can signal politeness or caution, especially in cultures that value indirectness or respect for hierarchy.
Origin of 'tentative'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'tentativus' meaning 'attempted' or 'tried'.
- It entered the English language in the early 17th century, evolving from its roots in ideas of trials and attempts.
The word 'tentative' originated from the Latin word 'tentativus', which means 'involving trial or experiment'. The term evolved in the late 19th century to describe something not definite or certain. Over time, 'tentative' has been widely used in decision-making contexts to denote hesitation or uncertainty.