tentatively

adverb

Definition of tentativelynext
as in hesitantly

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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 tentatively In 1993, a team led by the planetary scientist Carl Sagan tentatively concluded that there is life on Earth. — Quanta Magazine, 8 July 2026 His convictions were later overturned, and a new trial has been tentatively set for April 2027. — Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026 After nine days on strike, workers at Philadelphia's largest unionized hotel have tentatively agreed to a new contract. — Laura Fay, CBS News, 29 June 2026 The Obamas and their Higher Ground Productions have tentatively waded into the world of Hollywood with TV and movies, mostly documentaries and children's shows. — Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for tentatively
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tentatively
  1. hesitantly
  2. haltingly
Adverb
  • The many attending assistants around her eventually disperse — a little hesitantly because Sam is in the middle of preparing a new show — and the two withdraw to Sam’s cavernous studio.
    — Jake Coyle, Boston Herald, 24 Apr. 2026
  • Only the bravest walked hesitantly toward the well.
    — Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 15 Feb. 2026
Definition of hesitantly
Adverb
  • Law-enforcement officials in Minnesota are—albeit haltingly—beginning to move forward with investigations and prosecutions on their own.
    — Quinta Jurecic, The Atlantic, 6 July 2026
  • Root listens intently and then responds, initially haltingly.
    — James Wallace, New York Times, 22 May 2026
Definition of haltingly

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tentative
tentatively
tented
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Cite this Entry

“Tentatively.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tentatively. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on tentatively

Nglish: Translation of tentatively for Spanish Speakers

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