Tentatively: meaning, definitions and examples

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tentatively

 

[ ˈtɛntətɪvli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

in a cautious or uncertain manner

Tentatively is used to describe something done with hesitation or uncertainty, not making a firm commitment or decision. It implies a temporary or provisional nature of an action or decision. People often act tentatively when they are not completely sure about the outcome or consequences of their actions.

Synonyms

cautiously, hesitantly, uncertainly

Examples of usage

  • He tentatively agreed to the proposal, but wanted more time to think it over.
  • She approached the new project tentatively, unsure of how to proceed.
  • The team tentatively planned the next steps, waiting for more information to make a final decision.

Translations

Translations of the word "tentatively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 provisoriamente

🇮🇳 अस्थायी रूप से

🇩🇪 vorläufig

🇮🇩 sementara

🇺🇦 попередньо

🇵🇱 tymczasowo

🇯🇵 仮に

🇫🇷 provisoirement

🇪🇸 provisionalmente

🇹🇷 geçici olarak

🇰🇷 임시로

🇸🇦 مؤقتًا

🇨🇿 prozatímně

🇸🇰 predbežne

🇨🇳 暂时地

🇸🇮 začasno

🇮🇸 tímabundið

🇰🇿 уақытша

🇬🇪 დროებით

🇦🇿 müvəqqəti olaraq

🇲🇽 provisionalmente

Etymology

The word 'tentatively' originated from the Latin word 'tentativus', which means 'to try'. It entered the English language in the early 19th century. The adverb 'tentatively' suggests a sense of trial and uncertainty, reflecting the cautious approach in decision-making or actions.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,558, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.