Synonym Chooser

How is the word hesitant different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of hesitant are averse, disinclined, loath, and reluctant. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty.

hesitant about asking for a date

In what contexts can averse take the place of hesitant?

The synonyms averse and hesitant are sometimes interchangeable, but averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work
not averse to an occasional drink

When might disinclined be a better fit than hesitant?

The words disinclined and hesitant can be used in similar contexts, but disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again
disinclined for reading

When is it sensible to use loath instead of hesitant?

While the synonyms loath and hesitant are close in meaning, loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone

When could reluctant be used to replace hesitant?

The words reluctant and hesitant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

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 hesitant According to research conducted by EY, a multinational professional services network, while workers were initially hesitant about AI, many are now eager to embrace it, develop their skills and find new ways to contribute. Heather V. MacArthur, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025 Tenants were hesitant about sharing spaces during the height of the pandemic, and developers initially tried to set up onsite workspaces in a way that maintained separation between residents. Caleb McCullough, Chicago Tribune, 25 May 2025 Lapid, who feels irrevocably linked to Israel despite no longer living there, and who has never been hesitant about criticizing the country in the press or in his work, said as much in the notes to film. Alison Willmore, Vulture, 22 May 2025 Several Republicans have also appeared hesitant about Trump’s meme coin dinner. Julia Shapero, The Hill, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for hesitant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hesitant
reluctant
Adjective
  • While reluctant to leave his family and friends, he’s applied to faculty positions in Canada and France.
    Christina Larson, Los Angeles Times, 25 May 2025
  • Even if Merz—whose coalition partner, the Social Democrats, is notoriously reluctant to fully commit to defense—can’t keep all of his promises, Germany will be a different kind of military player within a few years.
    Ian Bremmer, Time, 24 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Hesitant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hesitant. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on hesitant

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