be hesitant
/biː ˈhɛzɪtənt/verb phrase★Intermediate
informal
to be unwilling or slow to act or speak because of uncertainty or fear
He hesitated before answering the question.
He paused and was unsure before answering.
The child was hesitant to try the new food.
The child was reluctant to try the unfamiliar food.
💡
Often used to describe someone who is cautious or unsure in their actions or decisions.
Collocations
be hesitant to do somethingto be reluctant or unsure about doing somethinghesitant smilea smile that shows uncertainty or nervousness
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
hesitateverb
to pause or delay before acting or speaking
hesitationnoun
the act of pausing or being uncertain
💡Pro Tip
Common Usage
'Be hesitant' is often followed by 'to' and a verb, e.g., 'be hesitant to speak'.
⚡Gold Rule
Correct Preposition
Always use 'to' before the verb when using 'be hesitant'.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'hesitanten', from Old French 'hesiter', from Latin 'haesitare' (to hesitate).
📝Usage Notes
Commonly used to describe someone who is cautious or unsure in their actions or decisions. Often followed by 'to' and a verb.
Word Breakdown
be
to exist or occur
verbhesitant
uncertain or reluctant
adjectiveEnglish Dictionary