Basic Details
Word: Hesitantly
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: In a way that shows you are unsure or uncertain about something.
Synonyms: Uncertainly, reluctantly, tentatively
Antonyms: Confidently, decisively
Idioms and Phrases
- Hesitate on the fence: To be undecided and unable to make a choice. Example: "She hesitated on the fence about whether to join the soccer team or focus on her studies."
- Hesitant heart: Referring to someone who is feeling unsure or fearful about something. Example: "With her hesitant heart, she took a deep breath before speaking in front of the class."
Usage Examples
Example 1: He spoke hesitantly when asked to present his project to the class.
Example 2: She hesitantly stepped forward to answer the teacher's question.
Example 3: The kitten approached the new toy hesitantly, unsure if it was safe to play with.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "hesitate" comes from the Latin word "haesitare," which means "to stick" or "to stay in one place"? This reflects the feeling of being stuck between choices and not being able to decide.
Famous Quote
"The only limit to our realisation of tomorrow will be our doubts of today." Franklin D. Roosevelt
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "hesitantly" mean?
a) In a confident manner
b) In a way that shows uncertainty
c) Quickly
d) Happily
Answer: b) In a way that shows uncertainty
2. Which of these is a synonym of "hesitantly"?
a) Confidently
b) Uncertainly
c) Quickly
d) Bravely
Answer: b) Uncertainly
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "hesitantly"?
a) Decisively
b) Slowly
c) Doubtfully
d) Reluctantly
Answer: a) Decisively
4. Which sentence uses "hesitantly" correctly?
a) She ran hesitantly across the finish line.
b) He spoke hesitantly during his presentation.
c) They laughed hesitantly at the joke.
d) She danced hesitantly at the party.
Answer: b) He spoke hesitantly during his presentation.
5. What does the phrase "hesitate on the fence" mean?
a) To feel excited
b) To be undecided and unsure
c) To stand still
d) To make a quick decision
Answer: b) To be undecided and unsure
