Tentative: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

• They scheduled a tentative meeting for next week
• The plans are still tentative and may change

Indecisive has a negative connotation and describes someone who has difficulty making decisions. It implies a chronic inability to make up their mind.

• Her indecisive nature cost her the job opportunity
• He was too indecisive to choose a restaurant

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.

• The results of the experiment are still uncertain
• He felt uncertain about his future

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.

• She was hesitant to speak in front of the large crowd
• He seemed hesitant to make a decision

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.

• They made a tentative arrangement to meet next week.
• Her tentative steps indicated she wasn't fully confident.

Applicable in scientific or technical contexts when trying out new ideas, methods, or procedures. It suggests a formal process of trial and error.

• The new drug is still at the experimental stage.
• Our team is working on an experimental prototype.

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.

• The new software is available for a 30-day trial period.
• The trial for the suspect is scheduled for next month.

Used when something is temporary and may change later. Often appears in contexts like agreements, measures, or plans that are not finalized.

• They offered him a provisional contract.
• These are the provisional results, and the final ones will be released next week.