Meaning & Definition of word "Hesitate"
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.