HESITANT Synonyms: 48 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'hesitant' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of hesitant are averse , disinclined , loath , and reluctant . While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty. // hesitant about asking for a date

Q: In what contexts can 'averse' take the place of 'hesitant'?

The synonyms averse and hesitant are sometimes interchangeable, but averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance. // averse to hard work // not averse to an occasional drink

Q: When might 'disinclined' be a better fit than 'hesitant'?

The words disinclined and hesitant can be used in similar contexts, but disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination. // disinclined to move again // disinclined for reading

Q: When is it sensible to use 'loath' instead of 'hesitant'?

While the synonyms loath and hesitant are close in meaning, loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking. // seems loath to trust anyone

Q: When could 'reluctant' be used to replace 'hesitant'?

The words reluctant and hesitant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness. // a reluctant witness

hesitant

adjective

ˈhe-zə-tənt

Definition of hesitant next

as in reluctant

slow to begin or proceed with a course of action because of doubts or uncertainty he was hesitant about committing himself to the oversight of the project, which he knew would be long and difficult

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How is the word hesitant different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of hesitant are averse, disinclined, loath, and reluctant. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty.

hesitant about asking for a date

In what contexts can averse take the place of hesitant?

The synonyms averse and hesitant are sometimes interchangeable, but averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work

not averse to an occasional drink

When might disinclined be a better fit than hesitant?

The words disinclined and hesitant can be used in similar contexts, but disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again

disinclined for reading

When is it sensible to use loath instead of hesitant?

While the synonyms loath and hesitant are close in meaning, loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone

When could reluctant be used to replace hesitant?

The words reluctant and hesitant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

Examples of hesitant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Owners once hesitant to adopt new technology tools have suddenly developed an insatiable appetite for advanced technologies. —

Mark Zettl, Forbes, 9 Sep. 2024 But many prosthetics techs are hesitant to alter bionic parts. —

Chloé Valentine Toscano, The Atlantic, 14 Aug. 2024 Distinguished from other Hongs like it by its light autumnal chill and accompanying russet palette, this subtle comedy of actors, academics and dreams set to one side welcomes the director’s steadfast fans like a gentle but hesitant embrace. —

Guy Lodge, Variety, 16 Aug. 2024 While many of these bans have since been repealed, many schools are still hesitant about how AI tools will be used (or misused) in the classroom or laboratory. —

Chris Morris, Fortune, 9 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hesitant

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hesitant.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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“Hesitant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hesitant. Accessed 19 Sep. 2024.

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Last Updated: 15 Sep 2024 - Updated example sentences

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Synonyms of hesitant

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Examples of hesitant in a Sentence

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