Synonyms of hesitant

hesitant

adjective

ˈhe-zə-tənt 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reluctant
• unsure
• dubious
• loath
• skeptical
• unwilling
• disinclined
• uncertain
• loth
• reticent
• loathe
• cagey
• timid
• cagy
• indisposed
• doubtful
• unenthusiastic
• averse
• ambivalent
• conflicted
• questioning
• irresolute
• undecided
• wobbly
• indecisive
• faltering
• shy
• uneager
• infirm
• wabbly
• vacillating
• halting
• fainthearted

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• inclined
• eager
• happy
• glad
• enthusiastic
• willing
• keen
• ready
• decided
• disposed
• sure
• certain
• determined
• resolute
• unquestioning

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

Recent Examples of hesitant

Heaton said many community members were vaccine-hesitant before the pandemic, but Covid mandates made some people even more reluctant to get their shots. —Mustafa Fattah, NBC news, 22 Sep. 2025

Another factor contributing to the loss of business after Helene was that people were hesitant to visit Asheville due to uncertainty about the passability of the roads, Claybrook said. —Graham Hurley, CNN Money, 21 Sep. 2025

Both Pulte and Martin have been vocal in discussing the cases – something investigators are typically hesitant to do before any charges have been filed. —Rebecca Beitsch, The Hill, 19 Sep. 2025

Sometimes the owl in Lower Leggett’s goes a little hesitant. —Literary Hub, 19 Sep. 2025