hesitate

[hez-i-teyt] / ˈhɛz ɪˌteɪt /

VERB

wait; be uncertain

Synonyms

STRONGEST

balk dither falter pause ponder stumble waffle waver

STRONG

alternate balance dally debate defer delay demur dillydally doubt equivocate flounder fluctuate fumble hang hedge hover linger oscillate pussyfoot scruple seesaw shift shrink stammer stop straddle stutter swerve tergiversate vacillate weigh

WEAK

be irresolute be reluctant be unwilling blow hot and cold hang back hem and haw hold back hold off pull back shy away sit on fence think about think twice

Antonyms

STRONGEST

continue persist

STRONG

advance agree do well expedite face go go along hasten hurry meet remain rush stay

WEAK

attack carry on go ahead persevere resolve

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.

In a speech on Wednesday, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde said the bank wouldn’t hesitate in a “forceful or persistent” response should eurozone inflation rise significantly from its 2% target.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

Overall, if LNG is seen as too volatile, countries may hesitate to build infrastructure around it at all.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

The attendant gestured toward the sky, saying that “the boss” was watching on camera and would not hesitate to call security.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

While those issues have improved, many physicians still hesitate to prescribe them.

From Science Daily • Mar. 21, 2026

I hesitate a second longer before slipping into the embrace of night.

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray

hesitate

Example Sentences

Related Words