Synonym Chooser

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

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of hesitant Many of them were hesitant to leave their homes during the federal surge of law enforcement and National Guard in the District. ABC News, 30 Sep. 2025 Vanderbilt was hesitant, however. Ed Meza, Variety, 30 Sep. 2025 Others are hesitant to declare fealty. Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 30 Sep. 2025 Bowman may be hesitant to reach into that group of players in an effort to improve the roster right now. Allan Mitchell, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hesitant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hesitant
reluctant
Adjective
  • Her own dentist was reluctant to talk to her about it.
    Laura Trujillo, USA Today, 7 Oct. 2025
  • But employers are still reluctant to part with workers given the lessons from the Covid pandemic, when a rash of layoffs in the early stages was followed by the monumental task of refilling those jobs.
    Jeff Cox, CNBC, 3 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Hesitant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hesitant. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on hesitant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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