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 Even if Snap’s rivals release glasses that don’t display virtual images on top of the physical world, consumers will likely be hesitant to spend more money on extra features. Queenie Wong, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2025 While everything seemed to be going well, Maddie was hesitant because Mikey looked significantly younger than her. Ashley Vega, People.com, 10 June 2025 Reports across the country suggest American consumers are hesitant about booking long vacations in faraway places this summer. David Lyons, Sun Sentinel, 9 June 2025 But some people may be hesitant about having any of their activities tracked to benefit a multi-trillion-dollar conglomerate. ArsTechnica, 1 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for hesitant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hesitant
reluctant
Adjective
  • Elsewhere in the country, too, state agencies and providers that rely on SAMHSA funding and technical support are feeling isolated, lost and reluctant to reach out to the federal staff left at the agency, says Dr. Eric Rafla-Yuan, a psychiatrist in San Diego, Calif.
    Rhitu Chatterjee, NPR, 6 June 2025
  • Jobless claims — a proxy for layoffs — still remain low by historical standards, suggesting that employers are reluctant to cut staff despite uncertainty over Trump’s policies.
    Paul Wiseman, Los Angeles Times, 6 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Hesitant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hesitant. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on hesitant

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