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B1 Verb #43 پرکاربردترین 13 دقیقه مطالعه

hesitate

رتبه 43

At the A1 level, 'hesitate' is a bit advanced, but you might see it in very common phrases. Think of it as a 'stop' or a 'wait' because you are not sure. For example, if you are walking and you see a big dog, you might 'hesitate' (stop for a second) before you keep walking. In A1, we focus on the simple idea: you want to do something, but you stop for a short time because you are a little bit afraid or you need to think. It is a very useful word to know when you want to be polite. In English classes, your teacher might say, 'Don't hesitate to ask questions!' This just means 'Please ask questions! Don't be shy!' It is a friendly way to tell someone they can do something. You don't need to worry about the long grammar rules yet. Just remember that 'hesitate' means a small pause. It is like a yellow traffic light—it means 'wait a moment and think' before you go. You can use it when you are talking about simple things like choosing a flavor of ice cream or deciding which shirt to wear. If you take a few seconds to choose, you are hesitating. It is a natural part of speaking and doing things. Even if you are just starting to learn English, knowing this word helps you understand when people are being polite or when they are feeling a little bit unsure about something.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'hesitate' in simple sentences to describe how people feel. You might say, 'He hesitated before he opened the door.' This shows that the person was maybe a little nervous. At this level, you are learning to describe actions and feelings together. 'Hesitate' is a great word for this. You can also use it in the negative form: 'Don't hesitate.' This is very common in emails or when you are helping someone. If you give someone directions, you can say, 'If you get lost, don't hesitate to call me.' This makes you sound very helpful and kind. You are moving beyond just 'stop' and 'wait' and starting to see that 'hesitate' is about the *reason* why someone stops. It's usually because they are thinking or they are a bit worried. You might also notice that we often use 'to' after 'hesitate'. For example, 'I hesitate to eat this' or 'She hesitated to say hello.' This 'to + verb' pattern is very important as you grow in your English skills. Try to use it when you are talking about your daily life. Did you hesitate before buying something expensive? Did you hesitate before answering a question in class? Using the word in these real-life situations will help you remember it and use it correctly in the future.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'hesitate' in a variety of contexts, especially in professional and social situations. You understand that 'hesitate' is a verb that describes a brief pause caused by uncertainty or indecision. You can use it to add nuance to your descriptions of people's behavior. For instance, instead of just saying someone was 'slow,' you can say they 'hesitated,' which explains *why* they were slow—they were thinking or they were unsure. You are also familiar with the common phrase 'Please do not hesitate to contact us,' which you will see in many business contexts. At this level, you should also be aware of the noun form, 'hesitation.' You might say, 'After a moment's hesitation, he agreed to the plan.' This shows a higher level of vocabulary. You can also start using adverbs with 'hesitate' to be more specific. For example, 'He hesitated briefly' or 'She hesitated slightly.' These small words change the meaning and make your English sound more natural. You understand that hesitating isn't always bad; sometimes it's a sign of being careful or thoughtful. In your writing, you can use 'hesitate' to show conflict in a story or to express your own caution when making a suggestion. It's a versatile word that helps you express more complex ideas about how people make decisions and interact with each other.

At the B2 level, you can use 'hesitate' to express subtle shades of meaning and complex psychological states. You understand that hesitation can be a tactical move in a negotiation, a sign of moral conflict, or a symptom of a lack of confidence. You are comfortable using 'hesitate' with a wide range of prepositions and in various grammatical structures. For example, you can distinguish between 'hesitating to act' (reluctance to do something) and 'hesitating over a choice' (indecision between options). You also recognize the idiomatic use of the word, such as in the proverb 'He who hesitates is lost,' and you can discuss its meaning and relevance in different situations. Your vocabulary includes synonyms like 'waver,' 'falter,' and 'vacillate,' and you know when to use 'hesitate' instead of these alternatives to be most precise. In professional settings, you use 'hesitate' to soften your language and sound more diplomatic. Instead of saying 'I don't want to say this,' you might say 'I hesitate to mention this, but...' This shows a high level of social and linguistic competence. You can also analyze the use of hesitation in literature or film, discussing how a character's hesitation reveals their inner thoughts and motivations. At this level, 'hesitate' is not just a word you know; it's a tool you use to communicate with precision, nuance, and sophistication in both spoken and written English.

At the C1 level, your mastery of 'hesitate' involves a deep understanding of its connotations and its role in sophisticated discourse. You can use the word to describe complex social dynamics and subtle emotional shifts. You might use it in an academic or professional analysis to describe a 'hesitation in the market' or a 'hesitant approach to policy reform.' You understand the rhythmic and rhetorical power of the word, using it to create suspense or to emphasize a point in your writing and speaking. You are also aware of the more obscure uses and related words, such as 'unhesitating' (meaning immediate and confident) or 'hesitancy' (a more formal noun often used in medical or psychological contexts, like 'vaccine hesitancy'). You can use these variations to express precise ideas with high level of accuracy. Furthermore, you are sensitive to the cultural implications of hesitation, recognizing that the meaning of a pause can vary significantly across different societies. You can navigate these nuances in international business or diplomatic settings, using your understanding of 'hesitate' to interpret others' behavior correctly and to calibrate your own communication. Your use of the word is effortless and integrated into a broad and sophisticated vocabulary, allowing you to express the finest distinctions in human thought and action. You can discuss the philosophy of hesitation—is it a sign of wisdom or a failure of will?—and use the word as a springboard for deep and meaningful conversation.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like command of 'hesitate' and its entire semantic field. You use the word with absolute precision, often employing it in metaphorical or highly specialized ways. You might speak of a 'hesitating light' in a poetic description or a 'hesitation in the engine's rhythm' in a technical context. You are fully aware of the word's etymological roots and how they inform its current usage. You can use 'hesitate' to convey the most delicate ironies or to provide profound insights into human nature. Your writing might explore the 'aesthetics of hesitation,' or you might use the word to critique a complex political maneuver. You are also a master of the word's register, knowing exactly when a formal 'demur' is more appropriate than 'hesitate,' or when a more visceral 'falter' would be more effective. You can use 'hesitate' in a way that is both intellectually rigorous and emotionally resonant. For you, 'hesitate' is not just a verb; it is a concept that you can manipulate and explore to its fullest extent. You can engage in high-level debates about the role of hesitation in decision theory or ethics, and you can use the word to articulate the most subtle and profound aspects of the human condition. Your command of the word is so complete that you can even play with its meaning, using it in unexpected or creative ways that still feel perfectly natural and deeply expressive.

تمرین کن مثال‌ها نکات و راهنمایی‌ها

hesitate در ۳۰ ثانیه

To hesitate is to pause briefly before acting or speaking, usually due to doubt, fear, or a need for reflection.
It is commonly used in the phrase 'Don't hesitate to...' as a polite way to encourage someone to take action.
The word captures the internal conflict between wanting to do something and being unsure of the outcome or consequences.
Grammatically, it is an intransitive verb often followed by 'to' + verb, 'about', 'over', or 'before'.

To hesitate is to experience a momentary suspension of action or speech. This isn't just a simple stop; it is a psychological and physical pause born from the internal machinery of decision-making. When you hesitate, your brain is essentially hitting the 'pause' button to evaluate risks, process information, or manage a surge of emotion like fear or uncertainty. It is a universal human experience that occurs in split-second physical reactions—like hesitating before jumping into a cold pool—and in long-term life decisions, such as hesitating to accept a new job offer in a different city. The word captures that precise 'in-between' state where you are neither moving forward nor fully retreating, but rather hovering on the edge of a choice.

The Internal Conflict: Hesitation often signals a conflict between desire and caution. You might want to speak up in a meeting, but you hesitate because you fear your idea might be judged. This internal friction is the core of the word's meaning.

In social contexts, hesitation can be a form of politeness or a sign of social awareness. If someone asks you a difficult question, hesitating before answering shows that you are giving the matter serious thought rather than offering a flippant or thoughtless response. Conversely, in high-stakes environments like emergency medicine or professional sports, hesitation is often viewed negatively, as a sign of indecision that could lead to failure. The context dictates whether the act of hesitating is seen as wise reflection or paralyzing doubt.

She began to speak, but then she seemed to hesitate, her eyes searching for the right words to explain the complicated situation without causing offense.

Physical Manifestation: Hesitation isn't just mental; it shows in the body. It is the hand that hovers over a doorbell, the foot that stops mid-step, or the breath held just a second too long before speaking. It is the physical shadow of doubt.

Culturally, the concept of hesitation varies. In some cultures, a long pause before answering is a sign of deep respect and intelligence, showing that the speaker is weighing their words carefully. In fast-paced Western business cultures, however, excessive hesitation can be misinterpreted as a lack of confidence or competence. Understanding the nuance of 'hesitate' requires looking at the 'why' behind the pause. Is it fear? Is it wisdom? Is it simple confusion? The word covers all these bases, making it a versatile tool for describing the complexities of human behavior and the subtle pauses that define our interactions with the world around us.

The horse reached the edge of the stream and began to hesitate, sensing the depth of the rushing water before finally deciding to cross.

Emotional Weight: When we hesitate to tell someone the truth, the pause is heavy with the weight of potential consequences. This type of hesitation is often the most difficult to overcome because it involves the fear of hurting others.

Please do not hesitate to contact our customer support team if you encounter any technical difficulties with your new software installation.

He did not hesitate for a single second before jumping into the river to save the struggling puppy.

The politician seemed to hesitate when asked about the new tax policy, suggesting he wasn't entirely sure of the details himself.

Using 'hesitate' correctly involves understanding its grammatical patterns and the subtle shifts in meaning they create. Most commonly, 'hesitate' is followed by an infinitive verb (to + verb). This structure indicates what action is being delayed or considered. For example, 'I hesitate to suggest this' implies a certain level of modesty or fear that the suggestion might be poorly received. It adds a layer of politeness and caution to the sentence, signaling to the listener that the speaker is aware of the potential risks of their words.

Hesitate + To + Verb: This is the most frequent construction. It shows a reluctance to perform a specific action. 'She hesitated to open the letter' suggests she was afraid of what might be inside.

Another common pattern is 'hesitate about' or 'hesitate over'. This is used when the hesitation is directed toward a choice, a decision, or a specific object. 'He hesitated over the menu' means he was having trouble deciding what to eat. 'They hesitated about buying the house' suggests they had doubts about the purchase itself. Using 'over' often implies a more detailed or prolonged period of indecision, whereas 'about' is more general.

If you have any questions regarding the contract, please do not hesitate to reach out to our legal department.

Negative Imperative: 'Don't hesitate' is a powerful phrase used to encourage someone. It removes the barrier of doubt and gives the other person permission to act freely.

You can also use 'hesitate' with adverbs to describe the nature of the pause. Words like 'briefly', 'momentarily', 'visibly', or 'painfully' add descriptive depth. 'He hesitated briefly' suggests a small flicker of doubt, while 'He hesitated painfully' implies a deep, agonizing struggle with a decision. These modifiers allow you to paint a clearer picture of the subject's internal state. Furthermore, the word can be used in the past tense to describe a completed action of pausing, or in the continuous form ('hesitating') to describe an ongoing state of indecision.

The witness began to hesitate under the intense pressure of the cross-examination, casting doubt on her previous testimony.

Hesitate + Before: Using 'before' highlights the moment of pause preceding an action. 'He hesitated before answering the phone' emphasizes the delay itself.

While others might hesitate at the sight of danger, the firefighter moved forward with absolute purpose.

I hesitate to call him a liar, but his version of events doesn't quite match the evidence we've gathered.

The software will hesitate for a moment while it processes the large data set, so please be patient.

In the real world, 'hesitate' is a staple of professional and polite communication. You will hear it most frequently in customer service, business emails, and formal invitations. When a company says, 'Please do not hesitate to contact us,' they are using a conventionalized polite formula to lower the barrier for communication. It’s a way of saying, 'We are open, friendly, and ready to help, so don't feel like you are bothering us.' In these contexts, the word is almost entirely positive, serving as an invitation rather than a description of doubt.

Professional Correspondence: It is perhaps the most common way to end a business letter. It signals availability and a willingness to provide further assistance without reservation.

You will also encounter 'hesitate' in literature and storytelling to describe character development. Authors use it to show a character's internal struggle. If a hero hesitates before pulling a lever, it builds suspense. If a villain hesitates before committing a crime, it suggests a lingering spark of humanity. In movies, you might not hear the word spoken, but you see the 'hesitation' in the actor's performance—the pause, the darting eyes, the trembling hand. When critics review these performances, they often use the word to describe the nuance the actor brought to the role.

In the movie's climax, the protagonist did not hesitate to sacrifice his own safety for the sake of the mission.

News and Journalism: Journalists use the word to describe political delays. 'The government hesitated to implement the new regulations' implies a lack of political will or a fear of public backlash.

In everyday conversation, people use 'hesitate' to explain their own social awkwardness or caution. 'I hesitated to call you because I knew you were busy' is a common way to justify a delay in communication. It serves as a social lubricant, explaining that the delay wasn't due to forgetfulness or lack of interest, but rather out of consideration for the other person's time. In this sense, 'hesitate' is a word that helps us navigate the delicate boundaries of social interaction, allowing us to express our thoughtfulness and our awareness of others' needs and boundaries.

The doctor seemed to hesitate before delivering the diagnosis, which made the patient even more anxious.

Legal Contexts: In a courtroom, a witness's hesitation can be scrutinized by a jury as a sign of dishonesty or uncertainty, making it a critical word in legal analysis.

Investors often hesitate when the market becomes volatile, preferring to wait for more stable conditions.

Don't hesitate—this limited-time offer ends at midnight tonight!

The teacher hesitated for a moment, then decided to give the student a second chance on the assignment.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 'hesitate' is using it as a transitive verb—that is, trying to put an object directly after it. You cannot 'hesitate a choice' or 'hesitate a jump'. Instead, you must use a preposition or an infinitive. You 'hesitate *about* a choice' or 'hesitate *to* jump'. This is a fundamental rule of English grammar that often trips up those whose native languages allow 'hesitate' to take a direct object. Remembering that 'hesitate' describes the *act* of pausing, rather than the thing being paused, can help clarify this.

Confusing with 'Wait': While similar, 'wait' is often passive (waiting for a bus), while 'hesitate' is active and internal (hesitating to speak). You wait for external events; you hesitate due to internal states.

Another common error is confusing 'hesitate' with 'delay'. While they both involve a lapse in time, 'delay' often implies an external cause or a formal postponement. If a flight is delayed, it's due to weather or mechanical issues. If a person hesitates, it's due to their own thoughts or feelings. You wouldn't say 'The rain hesitated the game'; you would say 'The rain delayed the game'. Conversely, 'He delayed to answer' is grammatically possible but sounds much less natural than 'He hesitated to answer'. 'Hesitate' specifically captures the psychological element of the pause.

Incorrect: I hesitated the decision for too long.
Correct: I hesitated about the decision for too long.

Spelling Errors: Learners sometimes misspell the word as 'hesatate' or 'hezitate'. The 'si' in the middle is key, reflecting its Latin roots. Pronouncing it carefully can help with the spelling.

Finally, be careful with the nuance of 'Don't hesitate to...'. Some learners use this in very informal settings where it might sound a bit too stiff or corporate. While it's never 'wrong', saying 'Feel free to call me' or 'Just call me' is often more appropriate for friends and family. 'Don't hesitate' carries a certain professional weight. Using it with your best friend might make you sound like you're trying to sell them something! Understanding the 'register' or formality of the word is just as important as knowing its definition.

Incorrect: He hesitated to the door.
Correct: He hesitated at the door.

Overusing the Word: In creative writing, repeating 'hesitated' too often can become repetitive. Try using 'paused', 'wavered', or 'faltered' to add variety to your descriptions.

The runner hesitated when he saw the hurdle was higher than expected, losing his rhythm and the race.

Never hesitate to stand up for what you believe is right, even if you are standing alone.

The cat hesitated on the fence, watching the dog below before deciding to jump the other way.

English is rich with words that describe the act of pausing or doubting, and choosing the right one can significantly change the tone of your sentence. 'Pause' is the most neutral alternative. It simply means to stop for a short time. Unlike 'hesitate', 'pause' doesn't necessarily imply doubt or fear; you might pause for breath or pause to enjoy a view. 'Hesitate' always carries that extra layer of uncertainty. If you want to describe a physical pause without the emotional baggage, 'pause' is your best bet.

Hesitate vs. Waver: 'Waver' suggests a back-and-forth movement in decision-making. If you hesitate, you stop. If you waver, you go between two choices. 'His resolve began to waver' means he was starting to change his mind.

'Falter' is another close synonym, but it often implies a loss of strength or momentum. If someone's voice falters, it might become weak or shaky. If a plan falters, it starts to fail. 'Hesitate' is more about the initial pause, while 'falter' is about the struggle to keep going. Then there is 'vacillate', a more formal word that describes someone who constantly changes their mind or opinion. A person who vacillates is seen as indecisive over a long period, whereas someone who hesitates might just need a moment to think.

Instead of hesitating, he decided to take a leap of faith and start his own business.

Hesitate vs. Dither: 'Dither' is a more informal and slightly negative word. It describes acting in a nervous and indecisive way about unimportant things. 'Stop dithering and pick a color!'

For more formal writing, you might use 'demur'. This means to raise doubts or objections or to show reluctance. It's often used in legal or highly professional contexts. 'She demurred at the suggestion' sounds much more sophisticated than 'She hesitated to agree'. Understanding these distinctions allows you to be more precise in your communication. Whether you are describing a split-second physical reaction or a complex psychological state, choosing between 'hesitate', 'waver', 'falter', or 'demur' will help you convey the exact shade of meaning you intend.

The negotiator did not hesitate to reject the unfair terms of the initial proposal.

Hesitate vs. Scruple: 'Scruple' (often used as 'not scruple to') is a very formal way to say someone has no moral hesitation. 'He did not scruple to lie to his friends' means he had no moral problem with lying.

While some might hesitate to try such spicy food, I found it absolutely delicious.

The company's CEO hesitated to invest in the new technology until more research was completed.

The audience hesitated for a moment before erupting into thunderous applause.

چقدر رسمی است؟

رسمی

خنثی

غیر رسمی

Child friendly

عامیانه

نکته جالب

Because 'hesitate' comes from a word meaning 'to stick', it is distantly related to words like 'adhere' (to stick to) and 'coherent' (sticking together). When you hesitate, you are literally 'sticking' to your current state instead of moving to the next one!

راهنمای تلفظ

UK /ˈhez.ɪ.teɪt/

US /ˈhez.ə.teɪt/

The primary stress is on the first syllable: HE-si-tate.

هم‌قافیه با

state gate late weight plate fate rate date

خطاهای رایج

Pronouncing the 's' as a soft 's' (like in 'sit') instead of a 'z' sound.
Stressing the second or third syllable instead of the first.
Mispronouncing the 'a' in the last syllable as a short 'a' instead of a long 'a' (like in 'late').
Forgetting to pronounce the final 't' clearly.
Confusing the spelling and pronunciation with 'hesitant'.

سطح دشواری

خواندن 3/5

Common in literature and professional emails, making it essential for intermediate readers.

نوشتن 4/5

Requires understanding of specific prepositional patterns like 'hesitate to' or 'hesitate about'.

صحبت کردن 3/5

A very useful word for expressing uncertainty or being polite in conversation.

گوش دادن 3/5

Easily recognized once the 'z' sound of the 's' is understood.

بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟

پیش‌نیازها

wait stop think sure afraid

بعداً یاد بگیرید

reluctant indecisive waver falter demur

پیشرفته

vacillate equivocate scruple oscillate ambivalence

گرامر لازم

Infinitive after 'hesitate'

I hesitate to (verb) suggest a change.

Preposition 'about' for topics

She hesitated about (noun) the new job.

Preposition 'over' for detailed choices

He hesitated over (noun) the contract details.

Adverbs of manner

He hesitated (adverb) briefly/painfully/visibly.

Negative imperative for encouragement

Don't hesitate to (verb) ask.

مثال‌ها بر اساس سطح

Please do not hesitate to ask.

Por favor, no dudes en preguntar.

Negative imperative form used for encouragement.

I hesitate to go outside in the rain.

Dudo en salir afuera bajo la lluvia.

Simple present tense showing a general feeling.

He hesitated for a moment.

Él dudó por un momento.

Past tense with a time expression.

Don't hesitate! Just do it!

¡No lo dudes! ¡Simplemente hazlo!

Short, emphatic imperative.

She hesitated at the door.

Ella dudó en la puerta.

Preposition 'at' used to show location of the pause.

They hesitate to eat the new food.

Ellos dudan en comer la comida nueva.

Plural subject with 'hesitate to' + verb.

I did not hesitate to help her.

No dudé en ayudarla.

Negative past tense showing quick action.

The cat hesitated before jumping.

El gato dudó antes de saltar.

Using 'before' to show the timing of the action.

If you need anything, don't hesitate to call me.

Si necesitas algo, no dudes en llamarme.

Conditional 'if' clause followed by a polite imperative.

He hesitated because he was afraid of the dark.

Él dudó porque tenía miedo a la oscuridad.

Using 'because' to explain the reason for hesitating.

She hesitated to tell him the bad news.

Ella dudó en contarle las malas noticias.

Infinitive 'to tell' shows the difficult action.

We hesitated about which movie to watch.

Dudamos sobre qué película ver.

Preposition 'about' followed by a noun phrase.

The driver hesitated at the red light.

El conductor dudó en el semáforo en rojo.

Simple past tense describing a common situation.

I hesitated to buy the expensive shoes.

Dudé en comprar los zapatos caros.

Showing indecision about a purchase.

He didn't hesitate to share his lunch with me.

Él no dudó en compartir su almuerzo conmigo.

Emphasizing kindness by using the negative form.

The dog hesitated before entering the water.

El perro dudó antes de entrar al agua.

Describing animal behavior with 'before'.

She hesitated for a second, then decided to tell the truth.

Dudó por un segundo, luego decidió decir la verdad.

Shows a sequence of internal events.

Investors often hesitate when the economy is unstable.

Los inversores suelen dudar cuando la economía es inestable.

General truth using 'often' and a time clause.

I hesitate to call him a friend after what he did.

Dudo en llamarlo amigo después de lo que hizo.

Expressing a nuanced opinion or feeling.

Please do not hesitate to contact our support team for help.

No dude en ponerse en contacto con nuestro equipo de soporte para obtener ayuda.

Standard professional formula.

He hesitated over the contract, reading every word carefully.

Dudó sobre el contrato, leyendo cada palabra con cuidado.

Preposition 'over' suggests detailed consideration.

The witness seemed to hesitate before answering the lawyer.

El testigo pareció dudar antes de responder al abogado.

Using 'seemed to' to describe an observation.

Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions.

No dude en comunicarse si tiene más preguntas.

Polite closing phrase.

She didn't hesitate to accept the job offer in London.

No dudó en aceptar la oferta de trabajo en Londres.

Showing confidence and quick decision-making.

The government hesitated to implement the new environmental laws.

El gobierno dudó en implementar las nuevas leyes ambientales.

Describes political indecision or caution.

He hesitated briefly, his eyes darting around the room.

Dudó brevemente, sus ojos recorriendo la habitación.

Using an adverb and a descriptive clause.

I would hesitate to recommend that restaurant to anyone.

Dudaría en recomendar ese restaurante a nadie.

Conditional 'would' expresses a strong but polite negative opinion.

She hesitated to speak up, fearing the consequences of her words.

Dudó en hablar, temiendo las consecuencias de sus palabras.

Participle phrase 'fearing...' explains the reason.

The athlete hesitated for a split second, which cost him the race.

El atleta dudó por una fracción de segundo, lo que le costó la carrera.

Relative clause 'which cost him...' shows the result.

Do not hesitate to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

No dude en aprovechar esta oportunidad única.

Persuasive language used in marketing.

He hesitated about whether to tell her the whole truth.

Dudó sobre si contarle toda la verdad.

'About whether to' is a complex but common structure.

The cat hesitated on the windowsill before leaping into the garden.

El gato dudó en el alféizar de la ventana antes de saltar al jardín.

Detailed description of a physical action.

The diplomat hesitated, carefully weighing the geopolitical ramifications of his response.

El diplomático dudó, sopesando cuidadosamente las ramificaciones geopolíticas de su respuesta.

Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structure.

One should not hesitate to challenge established norms when they are unjust.

Uno no debe dudar en desafiar las normas establecidas cuando son injustas.

Generic 'one' used for a formal, philosophical statement.

Her voice hesitated slightly as she reached the most emotional part of the story.

Su voz vaciló ligeramente al llegar a la parte más emotiva de la historia.

Metaphorical use of 'hesitate' applied to a voice.

The company's board of directors hesitated to approve the risky merger.

La junta directiva de la empresa dudó en aprobar la arriesgada fusión.

Formal business context.

He did not hesitate to point out the flaws in the professor's argument.

No dudó en señalar las fallas en el argumento del profesor.

Showing intellectual confidence.

The narrative hesitates at this point, allowing the reader to reflect on the tragedy.

La narrativa se detiene en este punto, permitiendo al lector reflexionar sobre la tragedia.

Abstract use of 'hesitate' in literary criticism.

Despite his training, the soldier hesitated for a moment before the battle began.

A pesar de su entrenamiento, el soldado dudó por un momento antes de que comenzara la batalla.

Showing human vulnerability in a high-stakes situation.

The market continues to hesitate as investors await the latest inflation data.

El mercado continúa dudando mientras los inversores esperan los últimos datos de inflación.

Economic personification of 'the market'.

The author's prose hesitates between the lyrical and the clinical, creating a unique tension.

La prosa del autor vacila entre lo lírico y lo clínico, creando una tensión única.

Highly abstract and metaphorical use in literary analysis.

In the face of such profound moral ambiguity, even the most decisive leader might hesitate.

Ante tal profunda ambigüedad moral, incluso el líder más decidido podría dudar.

Philosophical reflection on leadership and ethics.

The light hesitated on the horizon, as if unsure whether to give way to the night.

La luz vaciló en el horizonte, como si no estuviera segura de si dar paso a la noche.

Poetic personification of light.

To hesitate in such a critical juncture is to invite certain catastrophe.

Dudar en una coyuntura tan crítica es invitar a una catástrofe segura.

Infinitive phrase used as a subject for dramatic effect.

He spoke with an unhesitating clarity that commanded the attention of everyone in the room.

Habló con una claridad sin vacilaciones que atrajo la atención de todos en la sala.

Using the adjective 'unhesitating' to describe a quality.

The music hesitates, a brief silence that amplifies the power of the following crescendo.

La música vacila, un breve silencio que amplifica el poder del siguiente crescendo.

Describing musical dynamics metaphorically.

She did not scruple to exploit those who hesitated to defend themselves.

No tuvo escrúpulos en explotar a quienes dudaron en defenderse.

Using 'scruple' and 'hesitate' together for a strong moral statement.

The engine's slight hesitation was the first sign of the mechanical failure to come.

La ligera vacilación del motor fue la primera señal de la falla mecánica por venir.

Technical use of the noun form 'hesitation'.

ترکیب‌های رایج

hesitate to ask

hesitate for a moment

hesitate briefly

hesitate to call

hesitate about the plan

hesitate over a decision

without hesitating

slight hesitation

visible hesitation

hesitate to suggest

عبارات رایج

Don't hesitate to...

He who hesitates is lost.

Without a moment's hesitation

Hesitate to say

A moment of hesitation

Hesitate at the thought of

Hesitate to believe

Hesitate to commit

Hesitate to act

Never hesitate to...

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hesitate vs wait

'Wait' is often passive and external (waiting for a bus), while 'hesitate' is active and internal (doubting what to do).

hesitate vs delay

'Delay' usually implies an external cause or a formal postponement, whereas 'hesitate' is a personal, psychological pause.

hesitate vs pause

'Pause' is neutral and can be for any reason (like breathing), while 'hesitate' always implies some level of uncertainty or doubt.

اصطلاحات و عبارات

"He who hesitates is lost"

If you delay in taking action, you will miss your chance and fail. It emphasizes the importance of quick decision-making.

I missed the sale because I couldn't decide which color I wanted. He who hesitates is lost!

proverbial

"Think twice"

To hesitate and consider carefully before doing something, usually because it is risky. It is a common idiom for being cautious.

You should think twice before signing that contract.

informal

"Have second thoughts"

To start hesitating or doubting a decision you have already made. It implies a change of mind or a growing uncertainty.

I'm having second thoughts about moving to another city.

neutral

"Sit on the fence"

To hesitate to choose between two sides or opinions. It describes someone who is being neutral or indecisive.

You can't sit on the fence forever; you have to pick a side.

informal

"Drag one's feet"

To hesitate or delay doing something because you don't want to do it. It implies a lack of enthusiasm.

The company is dragging its feet on the new safety regulations.

informal

"Hem and haw"

To hesitate and avoid giving a direct answer. It describes someone who is being evasive or indecisive in their speech.

Stop hemming and hawing and tell me what you really think!

informal

"Bide one's time"

To intentionally hesitate and wait for the perfect moment to act. Unlike 'hesitate', this is often a strategic choice.

He is just biding his time until the right opportunity comes along.

neutral

"Cold feet"

A sudden hesitation or fear about doing something you had planned, especially getting married. It is a very common idiom for last-minute doubt.

The groom got cold feet and didn't show up for the wedding.

informal

"Beat around the bush"

To hesitate to get to the main point of a conversation, often because it is uncomfortable or difficult.

Don't beat around the bush; just tell me if I'm fired.

informal

"Take a back seat"

To hesitate to take a leading role and instead let others make the decisions. It implies a passive or cautious approach.

He decided to take a back seat and let the younger generation lead the project.

informal

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hesitate vs hesitant

It's the adjective form of the same root.

'Hesitate' is the action (verb), while 'hesitant' describes the person or their behavior (adjective).

He hesitated (verb) because he felt hesitant (adjective).

hesitate vs reluctant

Both involve not wanting to do something immediately.

'Reluctant' is a feeling of not wanting to do something; 'hesitate' is the actual pause or delay that results from that feeling.

She was reluctant to go, so she hesitated at the door.

hesitate vs waver

Both describe indecision.

'Waver' implies moving back and forth between two options, while 'hesitate' is more about the initial stop or pause.

He hesitated at first, then his resolve began to waver.

hesitate vs falter

Both involve a lapse in action.

'Falter' implies losing strength or starting to fail, while 'hesitate' is just the pause before starting or continuing.

He hesitated before speaking, and then his voice began to falter.

hesitate vs dither

Both mean being indecisive.

'Dither' is informal and usually describes acting nervously about small, unimportant things.

Stop dithering about which socks to wear and just pick some!

الگوهای جمله‌سازی

Don't hesitate to [verb].

Don't hesitate to ask.

Subject + hesitated + before + [verb-ing].

He hesitated before jumping.

Subject + hesitate + to + [verb].

I hesitate to call him.

Subject + hesitate + about + [noun].

She hesitated about the price.

Subject + hesitated + [adverb].

The witness hesitated visibly.

Without + [noun]'s + hesitation.

Without a moment's hesitation.

Subject + hesitate + over + [complex noun phrase].

The board hesitated over the ethical implications.

Subject + did not + scruple + to + [verb] + those who + hesitated.

He did not scruple to exploit those who hesitated.

خانواده کلمه

اسم‌ها

فعل‌ها

صفت‌ها

مرتبط

نحوه استفاده

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written English, especially in professional and narrative contexts.

اشتباهات رایج

Using 'hesitate' as a transitive verb. → I hesitated about the decision.
You cannot 'hesitate something'. You must use a preposition like 'about' or 'over'.
Misspelling as 'hesatate'. → Hesitate
The middle vowel is an 'i', not an 'a'. Think of the 'i' in 'indecision'.
Using 'hesitate' instead of 'delay' for external events. → The rain delayed the game.
Hesitation is internal and human. For weather or mechanical issues, use 'delay'.
Pronouncing the 's' as a soft 's'. → /ˈhezɪteɪt/
The 's' should sound like a 'z'. This is a very common pronunciation error.
Using 'Don't hesitate' in very informal settings. → Feel free to call me.
'Don't hesitate' is a bit formal. With close friends, 'feel free' or 'just call' is more natural.

نکات

Use the Infinitive

Always remember the 'hesitate to [verb]' pattern. It is the most common and natural way to use the word. For example, 'I hesitate to suggest this' sounds much better than other structures.

Be Polite

Use 'Don't hesitate to...' when you want to be extra helpful. It's a great social lubricant that makes the other person feel comfortable asking for your help.

Show Emotion

Use adverbs like 'briefly,' 'painfully,' or 'visibly' with 'hesitate' to show exactly how a person is feeling. This adds a lot of depth to your descriptions.

Learn the Family

Don't just learn 'hesitate'. Learn 'hesitation' (noun) and 'hesitant' (adjective) too. Knowing the whole family makes it much easier to use the concept in different ways.

The 'Z' Sound

Focus on the 'z' sound for the 's'. If you say it with a soft 's', people will still understand you, but it won't sound quite right. Practice saying 'HEZ-i-tate' several times.

Email Etiquette

Include 'Please do not hesitate to contact me' in your professional sign-offs. It's a small detail that makes a big difference in how professional you appear.

Catch the Pause

When listening to native speakers, notice the tiny pauses they make. Often, they are 'hesitating' to find the right word or to be polite. This will help you understand the 'rhythm' of English.

He Sits and Ate

Remember the story of the man who 'He sits and ate' his lunch because he was hesitating. It's a silly but effective way to remember the spelling and the meaning.

Don't Overuse

In a story, if every character 'hesitates' before every action, it becomes boring. Use other words like 'waited,' 'paused,' or 'thought' to keep the reader interested.

Cultural Awareness

Remember that in some cultures, hesitating is a sign of respect. Don't always assume that a pause means someone is confused or weak.

حفظ کنید

روش یادسپاری

Think of the word 'HE' + 'SIT' + 'ATE'. Imagine a man who is so unsure about what to do that he just **HE** **SIT**s there and **ATE** his lunch while he thought about it. He hesitated!

تداعی تصویری

Visualize a person standing at a crossroads with a giant yellow '?' above their head. They are not moving; they are just hovering there. This is the 'hesitation' pause.

شبکه واژگان

doubt pause uncertainty wait fear choice decision reluctance

چالش

Try to use 'hesitate' in three different ways today: once in a polite email, once to describe a character in a book or movie, and once to describe your own feelings about a choice.

ریشه کلمه

The word 'hesitate' comes from the Latin verb 'haesitare', which is the frequentative form of 'haerere', meaning 'to stick fast' or 'to hang'. This beautifully captures the feeling of being 'stuck' in a moment of indecision. It entered the English language in the early 17th century.

معنای اصلی: The original Latin sense was 'to be stuck' or 'to be at a loss for words'. It described a physical state of being unable to move forward, which evolved into the psychological state of indecision we use today.

It belongs to the Indo-European language family, specifically the Italic branch, which led to the Romance languages and heavily influenced English through Latin.

بافت فرهنگی

Be careful not to label someone as 'hesitant' in a performance review unless you mean they lack confidence, as it can be seen as a negative trait in some workplaces.

In the UK and US, 'Don't hesitate to contact me' is a standard, almost invisible part of professional etiquette. It's more about politeness than actual doubt.

Hamlet's 'To be or not to be' soliloquy is the ultimate literary example of hesitation. The proverb 'He who hesitates is lost' is widely used in English-speaking culture to encourage quick action. The song 'Don't Hesitate' by various artists often explores the theme of taking a chance on love.

تمرین در زندگی واقعی

موقعیت‌های واقعی

Customer Service

Don't hesitate to contact us.
Please don't hesitate to reach out.
We are here if you hesitate.
Never hesitate to ask for help.

Decision Making

Hesitate over a choice.
A moment of hesitation.
Stop hesitating and decide.
Hesitate about the consequences.

Social Situations

I hesitated to call you.
She hesitated to say hello.
Don't hesitate to join us.
He hesitated at the door.

Professional Emails

I hesitate to suggest...
Please do not hesitate to...
After some hesitation, we decided...
Without further hesitation...

Narrative Writing

He hesitated briefly.
A visible hesitation.
She didn't hesitate for a second.
The horse hesitated at the stream.

شروع‌کننده‌های مکالمه

"Have you ever hesitated to do something and then regretted it later?"

"Do you think it's better to act quickly or to hesitate and think things through?"

"What is something you would never hesitate to do for a friend?"

"When was the last time you hesitated before making a big purchase?"

"Do you hesitate more when you are tired or when you are stressed?"

موضوعات نگارش

Describe a time when you hesitated to speak up. What was the situation, and how did you feel afterward?

Write about a moment when you didn't hesitate at all. What gave you that level of confidence?

Reflect on the proverb 'He who hesitates is lost.' Do you agree with it? Why or why not?

If you could remove all hesitation from your life for one day, what would you do differently?

How does hesitation manifest in your body? Do you hold your breath, or do your hands shake?

سوالات متداول

10 سوال

No, not at all! While it can mean you are unsure, in phrases like 'Don't hesitate to ask,' it is very positive and welcoming. It can also show that you are being careful and thoughtful, which is a good thing. For example, hesitating before a dangerous jump is wise, not weak.

No, that is a common mistake. 'Hesitate' is an intransitive verb, so it doesn't take a direct object. You should say 'I hesitated *about* the decision' or 'I hesitated *before making* the decision'.

A 'pause' is just a stop in time for any reason (like a pause in a movie). 'Hesitate' is a specific kind of pause caused by doubt, fear, or thinking. You pause to breathe, but you hesitate to jump into cold water.

The most common way is at the end of the email: 'Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.' It's a very polite and standard way to show you are helpful.

It's a famous proverb that means if you spend too much time worrying and doubting instead of acting, you will miss your opportunity and fail. It's often used to encourage people to be brave and decisive.

They are very close. 'Indecision' is the state of not being able to decide. 'Hesitation' is the actual pause or delay that happens because of that indecision. One is the feeling, the other is the action (or lack of action).

Yes! We often use the word to describe animals. For example, 'The dog hesitated before jumping over the fence.' It shows that animals also process risk and uncertainty.

Words like 'decide,' 'continue,' or 'plunge' are good opposites. If you don't hesitate, you act immediately and with confidence.

It is a neutral word. It's perfectly fine to use with friends ('I hesitated to call you'), but it's also very common in formal writing and business ('The company hesitated to invest').

The 's' is pronounced like a 'z' sound. It sounds like 'HEZ-i-tate'. This is a very important detail for sounding natural in English.