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hesitate
/ˈhɛzɪteɪt/
pause due to uncertainty
She hesitated before answering the question.
She paused for a moment because she was unsure how to respond.
general
To pause in action or decision due to doubt or reluctance.
He hesitated to sign the contract without reading it first.
He was reluctant to sign the contract until he had reviewed it.
Don't hesitate to ask if you need help.
Feel free to ask for assistance whenever necessary.
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate a momentary delay caused by uncertainty.
Pro Tip
Common Mistakes
Avoid using 'hesitate' to mean 'refuse' or 'reject.' It specifically implies a pause due to uncertainty, not a definitive no.
Gold Rule
Infinitive Construction
Always follow 'hesitate' with an infinitive verb (e.g., 'hesitate to act') unless it is part of a phrase like 'without hesitation.'
Word Origin
From Latin *haesitāre* (to stick, remain fixed), frequentative of *haerēre* (to stick, cling), via Old French *hesiter*.
Usage Notes
Hesitate is often followed by an infinitive verb (e.g., 'hesitate to speak'). It implies a momentary delay rather than a complete refusal. In some contexts, it can suggest politeness or consideration.
Word Breakdown
hesit-
root related to sticking or clinging (from Latin *haerēre*)
root-ate
verb-forming suffix indicating action or process
suffixEnglish Dictionary