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

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

Roosevelt is arguably the more useful example, precisely because of his hesitation, pragmatism, and self-interest. — Beverly Gage, New Yorker, 28 Sep. 2026

My hesitation in choosing him had to do with his background being political in experience, not administrative. — Marci Woodward, Sun Sentinel, 25 Sep. 2026

Gone are the hesitation and the quick throwaway when in trouble. — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 24 Sep. 2026