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hanging back

ADJECTIVE

hesitant

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afraid averse doubtful halting indecisive loath reluctant shy skeptical slow tentative timid unsure unwilling

WEAK

backward dawdling delaying diffident disinclined doubting faltering half-hearted hesitating irresolute lacking confidence lazy uneager unpredictable vacillating wavering

Antonyms

STRONGEST

believing bold brave certain confident decisive definite eager extroverted fearless ready sure willing

WEAK

resolute unhesitant unwavering

ADJECTIVE

reluctant

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afraid averse cautious circumspect hesitant loath shy slow squeamish uncertain wary

WEAK

backward calculating chary demurring diffident discouraged disheartened disinclined grudging hesitating indisposed involuntary laggard opposed queasy recalcitrant remiss slack tardy uneager

Antonyms

STRONGEST

bold careless certain definite heedless incautious indiscreet rash ready sure uncareful willing

WEAK

anxious eager enthusiastic

ADJECTIVE

vacillant

Synonyms

WEAK

afraid averse backward dawdling delaying diffident disinclined doubtful doubting faltering half-hearted halting hesitating indecisive irresolute lacking confidence lazy loath pendulous reluctant shilly-shally shy skeptical slow tentative timid uneager unpredictable unsure unwilling vacillating vacillatory wavering

ADJECTIVE

vacillatory

Synonyms

WEAK

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Big Oil is hanging back, watching while wildcatters take on the risky exploratory work.

From Science Magazine • Feb. 15, 2023

Body camera footage released so far has shown him hanging back at a doorway, not entering the building.

From New York Times • Oct. 27, 2022

Some remember him as quiet, calm and often hanging back to allow others to speak their mind.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 29, 2022

"I didn't expect to see so many people," said Rebeca Brito, a 22-year-old nurse, hanging back to avoid the crowds.

From Reuters • Nov. 1, 2021

They just stood there, hanging back a little, like a pair of naughty kids.

From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson