Meaning & Definition of word "Hesitate"
to
Hesitate
/ˈhɛzɪteɪt/
verb:
- 1. to pause before saying or doing something, often due to uncertainty or indecision.
- Example: She didn't hesitate to express her opinion about the matter.
- 2. to be reluctant or undecided about whether to do something.
- Example: He hesitated before accepting the job offer.
- 3. to delay or postpone an action.
- Example: They hesitated to make the final decision until more information was provided.
Etymology
The word 'hesitate' comes from the Latin 'hesitare', which means 'to stick' or 'to be uncertain'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
hesitate to act:
to delay in taking action due to uncertainty.
never hesitate:
to encourage someone to act without delay.
Related Words
indecision:
the inability to make a decision quickly.
doubt:
a feeling of uncertainty about something.
pause:
a temporary stop in action or speech.
Slang Meanings of hesitate
Meaning: to think twice
Example Sentence: Don't think twice, just do it; stop hesitating.
Meaning: to sit on the fence
Example Sentence: He's just sitting on the fence about which offer to accept.