hesitation

[hez-i-tey-shuhn] / ˌhɛz ɪˈteɪ ʃən /

NOUN

waiting; uncertainty

Synonyms

STRONGEST

doubt equivocation hesitancy indecision misgiving mistrust pause procrastination qualm reluctance skepticism unwillingness vacillation

STRONG

dawdling delay demurral dubiety faltering fluctuation indecisiveness indisposition irresolution oscillation scruple wavering

WEAK

averseness delaying fumbling hemming and hawing stammering stumbling stuttering

Antonyms

STRONGEST

belief certainty confidence faith trust

WEAK

eagerness go perseverance sureness

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.

"Serbia has an open path towards the European Union. However, Serbia must also decide where it stands. A policy of hesitation between Russia, China and Europe is not possible," German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

Chief Financial Officer Richard McPhail said rising fuel costs, increased mortgage rates, and layoffs contribute to customer hesitation.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

I think it starts from the same thing that inspired my own hesitation to declare the frozen trucker case absurd when I first heard about it.

From Slate • May 13, 2026

For Nazakat Ali, that hesitation has become part of the job.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

I guess he can read the hesitation on my face.

From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold

Vocabulary lists containing hesitation

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