Synonyms for
Hesitation
Definition
Hesitation means the act of pausing before doing something, especially because you are nervous or unsure.
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Informal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- slight hesitation
- momentary hesitation
- without hesitation
- hesitation in
- hesitation to
- hesitation before
- a moment's hesitation
Word family
Usage note
Hesitation implies a pause or delay in action or speech due to doubt or uncertainty. It is generally a neutral term, but can sometimes carry a negative connotation if it implies indecisiveness or lack of confidence.
Example sentences
- He hesitated before jumping into the cold water.
- She showed hesitation when asked to speak in front of the class.
- There was a moment of hesitation before he answered the question.
- The athlete's hesitation cost him the race.
- I sensed some hesitation in his voice when he agreed to help me.
Quotes
Hesitation is the best cure for anger.
The chief danger in life is that you may take too many precautions.
Hesitation is the seed of defeat.
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