Synonyms for
Tentative
Definition
not fully worked out or final; hesitant or uncertain
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- tentative agreement
- tentative plan
- tentative steps
- tentative conclusion
- tentative proposal
- tentative date
- tentative offer
Word family
Usage note
Tentative describes something not yet finalized or agreed upon, often implying a degree of uncertainty or caution. It is commonly used in contexts like planning, agreements, or conclusions.
Example sentences
- The teacher made a tentative plan for the class trip.
- The basketball player made a tentative shot, not sure if it would go in.
- The company's plans for expansion were still tentative.
- She was tentative about trying the new food, not sure if she would like it.
- The scientists made a tentative conclusion based on their initial findings.
Quotes
'All human plans are tentative,' said Tom, 'and subject to correction and revision.' - Pearl S. Buck
'The fact is always obvious much too late, but the most singular difference between happiness and joy is that happiness is a solid and joy a liquid.' - J.D. Salinger
'Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.' - Lao Tzu