What is hesitate? Pronunciation and usage in English

hesitate means . Learn how to pronounce and use hesitate through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of hesitate

hesitateverb

/ˈhɛzɪteɪt/
Definition & pronunciation of hesitate

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "hesitate" in English. It can be a tricky one for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "hesitate" is typically divided into three syllables:

  • he - s (like "he" as in "hello")
  • ta - te (like “ta” as in “table” followed by “te” as in “test”)
  • te - ate (like “te” as in “test” followed by “ate” as in “late”)

2. Phonetics (Sounds):

Here’s a more detailed phonetic breakdown (using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA, which is more precise):

  • he - /hi/ (as in "hi")
  • sa - /sə/ (a short, unstressed "uh" sound - like the "a" in "about")
  • te - /teɪ/ (as in "tay")
  • ate - /eɪt/ (as in "eight")

3. Putting it Together:

So, when spoken, it sounds like this: hi-SAH-tay-ate

4. Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: "HEH-sih-tay."
  • The "sa" sound: This is often the trickiest part. It’s a short, subtle “uh” sound – don't over-emphasize it. It’s like a brief pause before "tay."
  • The "ate" sound: Make sure it's a clear "eight" sound.

Resources to Listen:

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Usage and examples with the word hesitate in English

Let's break down how to use the word "hesitate" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances, so understanding those distinctions is key.

1. Core Meaning: To Pause Before Acting or Speaking

  • Definition: "Hesitate" means to pause briefly before doing something or speaking, often because of uncertainty, nervousness, or doubt. It suggests a slight reluctance or delay.

  • Examples:

    • “I hesitated before answering the phone – I wasn't sure who it was.” (Pause due to uncertainty)
    • “He hesitated for a moment before taking the plunge and quitting his job.” (Pause due to fear or doubt)
    • “She hesitated to speak, clearly embarrassed.” (Pause due to nervousness)

2. As a Verb (Most Common Usage)

  • Transitive (taking an object): You can hesitate something.

    • “He hesitated to speak his mind.” (He hesitated to do something - speak)
    • “She hesitated to accept the offer.” (She hesitated to do something - accept)

  • Intransitive (not taking an object): It often describes the action itself.

    • “I hesitated, then walked out.” (No object – simply describing the action of pausing.)

3. As an Adjective (Describing a State)

  • Definition: "Hesitant" is the adjective form of hesitate. It describes someone who hesitates.

  • Examples:

    • “He gave a hesitant reply.” (He replied with a pause and uncertainty.)
    • “She was a hesitant driver, always careful to check her mirrors.” (She was a person who tended to pause before driving.)

4. Phrases Using "Hesitate"

  • “Hesitate to”: This is a very common construction.

    • “I hesitate to criticize, but…” (Expressing reluctance to criticize)
    • "Don't hesitate to ask for help." (Encouraging someone not to pause before asking)

  • “Hesitate for a moment” / “Hesitate briefly”: Emphasizes the short duration of the pause.

  • “Hesitate before…”: Indicates an action that requires a pause. (e.g., "He hesitated before entering the room.")

5. Synonyms

  • Delay
  • Pause
  • Struggle
  • Waver
  • Vacillate (more formal – to go back and forth between options)
  • Dither (similar to vacillate - suggests indecision)

Here’s a table summarizing the different ways to use "hesitate":

Form Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb Verb To pause briefly “I hesitated before answering.”
Verb Verb (Trans.) To hesitate something “He hesitated to speak his mind.”
Adjective Adjective Indicating a state of hesitation “She gave a hesitant reply.”

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Synonyms for the word hesitate

Idioms of the word hesitate

he who hesitates (is lost)
(saying)if you delay in doing something you may lose a good opportunity

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