hesitant
Translation
hesitant
Examples
He was hesitant to ask for help.
He was hesitant to ask for help.
She gave a hesitant smile.
She gave a hesitant smile.
Grammar Patterns
be hesitant ((to-inf)) to be slow to speak or act He was hesitant to speak.
be hesitant ((about sth.)) to be unsure about something She is hesitant about the plan.
Similar Words
Synonyms: reluctant, uncertain, undecided; Antonyms: confident, decisive
Etymology
From Latin 'haesitare', meaning 'to stick fast, to stammer in speech'. The '-ant' suffix forms an adjective.
Memory Tips
Think of someone who 'hesitates' before acting. If you hesitate, you are hesitant.