Definition of Hesitate
Quick Meaning of Hesitate
To pause, delay, or feel unsure before doing something.
Detailed Definition of Hesitate
To pause or show reluctance before taking action or deciding.
How to Pronounce Hesitate
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress first syllable /ˈhɛzɪteɪt/. 'Hes' rhymes with 'less'.
Watch out: Sometimes mispronounced as /hɛ'zɪteɪt/ with stress on second syllable.
How to Use Hesitate in a Sentence
Each example shows “hesitate” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Don't hesitate to ask me questions.”
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“She hesitated before giving her answer.”
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“He hesitated at the crossroads, unsure which direction to take.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Hesitate
Common Synonyms for Hesitate
Smart Synonyms for Hesitate — When to Use Each
- pause
- for brief moment of stopping or uncertainty
- waver
- for showing doubt or uncertainty in decision-making
- delay
- for intentional postponement or reluctance to act
Antonyms of Hesitate
Common Collocations with Hesitate
These phrases pair with “hesitate” in everyday English:
- hesitate to ask
- don't hesitate
- hesitate a moment
- hesitate before deciding
Common Mistakes When Using Hesitate
Even fluent speakers slip up with “hesitate”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She hesitated asking the question.
- ✓ Correct: She hesitated to ask the question.
- Why: Hesitate requires infinitive (to ask), not gerund.
- ✗ Wrong: Don't hesitate asking for help.
- ✓ Correct: Don't hesitate to ask for help.
- Why: Standard form is 'hesitate to + verb', not gerund.
Other Forms of Hesitate
- Noun: hesitation
- Verb: hesitate
- Adjective: hesitant
- Adverb: hesitantly
Frequently Asked Questions About Hesitate
What is the meaning of "Hesitate"?
To pause, delay, or feel unsure before doing something.
How do you pronounce "Hesitate"?
The IPA is /ˈhɛzɪteɪt/. Stress first syllable /ˈhɛzɪteɪt/. 'Hes' rhymes with 'less'.
What part of speech is "Hesitate"?
"Hesitate" is a verb at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Hesitate"?
Common synonyms include pause, waver, delay.
How do you use "Hesitate" in a sentence?
For example: "Don't hesitate to ask me questions."