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

The new work is a radical take on aging and femininity, an uncut hit of Cindy Sherman—despite, or maybe even because of, her initial hesitation. — Nate Freeman, Vanity Fair, 9 Oct. 2026

My hesitation remains the Vikings’ strong defense, limited offensive production and Christian Darrisaw’s uncertain availability. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 8 Oct. 2026

The recording includes hesitations and human interventions rather than presenting only the successful portions of the operation. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 2 Oct. 2026

Others who express hesitation or opposition to bans often cite the risk of sending people who are dependent on 7-OH into withdrawal, and potentially leading them to other, more dangerous substances. — Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 30 Sep. 2026