Synonyms of hesitation

hesitation

noun

ˌhe-zə-ˈtā-shən 

as in hesitancy

a state or an instance of temporary inaction because of uncertainty about the right course of action

one moment's hesitation on my part, and the elusive butterfly was lost to me forever

Synonyms & Similar Words

• hesitancy
• hesitance
• pause
• delay
• indecision
• vacillation
• uncertainty
• irresolution
• deliberation
• wavering
• faltering
• doubt
• wobbling
• waiting
• reluctance
• fence-sitting
• shilly-shallying
• shilly-shally
• consideration
• procrastination
• debate
• indecisiveness
• second thought
• hawing
• misgiving
• incertitude
• avoidance
• indetermination
• unwillingness
• timidity
• equivocation
• arrière-pensée
• indisposition
• faintheartedness
• disinclination
• shyness
• uncertainness
• timidness
• aversion

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• confidence
• determination
• resolution
• certainty
• firmness
• certitude
• readiness
• eagerness
• decisiveness
• sureness
• alacrity
• resoluteness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of hesitation

After some hesitation, the co-anchor finally placed his crown on his head. — Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026

The slowdown in investment was put down to government hesitation over changes to Italy’s domestic tax incentive for TV shows and films. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 21 Oct. 2026

But the earnestness of their performances, the texture of their hesitation, makes the video far more compelling than any of its deepfake counterparts. — Brady Brickner-Wood, New Yorker, 19 Oct. 2026

Decker said people who are homeless can feel hesitation to come into shelter, but Open Doors has built a rapport in the neighborhood and would want to stay. — Chris Higgins, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2026