hesitantly

Meaning

In a tentative or unsure way, often due to doubt, fear, or reluctance.

Examples

• She hesitantly approached the dark, unfamiliar door, wondering what lay behind it.
• He answered the difficult question hesitantly, trying to choose his words carefully.

Pronunciation: /ˈhɛzɪtəntli/

How to Use hesitantly

speak hesitantly (collocation)

To speak with pauses or uncertainty. — "She spoke hesitantly about her difficult past."

move hesitantly (collocation)

To move slowly or with uncertainty. — "The deer moved hesitantly into the clearing."

answer hesitantly (collocation)

To reply with doubt or reluctance. — "He answered hesitantly when asked about his grades."

Synonyms of hesitantly

Words with a similar meaning to hesitantly:

• tentatively
• reluctantly
• cautiously
• unwillingly

Antonyms of hesitantly

Words with the opposite meaning to hesitantly:

• confidently
• eagerly
• boldly