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.

However, she said anyone who finds a young owl should not hesitate to call the Redondo Police Department Animal Control if it looks like a dog or another animal is going to get to them.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

Sri Lanka had allowed the Iranian vessel to dock at a north-eastern port on 5 March after hours of discussion, with its president saying they would "never hesitate to protect humanity".

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

But neither should passengers hesitate to approach a flight attendant about their comfort.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

More than 20 countries have said they are ready to help “ensure safe passage through the strait,” but many of them will hesitate to enter an active war zone.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

I hesitate, not knowing if I’m going inside my house while he goes inside hers or what.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison

Vocabulary lists containing hesitate

List 3

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"Fears and Phobias," Vocabulary from the article

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Frindle

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!