hesitantly
/ˈhɛzɪtəntli/adverb★Intermediate
formalinformal
In a way that shows uncertainty, reluctance, or lack of confidence; slowly and with pauses
She hesitantly agreed to the proposal, unsure of its implications.
He spoke hesitantly during the presentation, clearly nervous about his performance.
💡
Often used to describe speech, actions, or decisions where the subject is uncertain or hesitant.
Collocations
hesitantly agreedto accept something with uncertaintyhesitantly spoketo talk in a way that shows nervousness or doubt
Synonyms
Antonyms
💡Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'hesitantly' to describe actions or speech that show doubt or uncertainty, often with physical pauses or hesitations.
📖Word Origin
Derived from the adjective 'hesitant' + the adverbial suffix '-ly', from Latin 'haesitare' (to hesitate).
📝Usage Notes
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe actions or speech that lack confidence or decisiveness.
Word Breakdown
hesitant
showing uncertainty or reluctance
root-ly
adverbial suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary