What does hesitatingly mean?
Hesitatingly is an adverb that describes an action performed with hesitation: a temporary pause, a lack of confidence, or reluctance to proceed. It is commonly used for speech and gestures—someone may answer hesitantly, reach out hesitantly, or approach a decision hesitantly—though it can also characterize movement or general behavior. The word is more vivid and specific than “with hesitation,” because it integrates the quality of indecision directly into a sentence. Its connotations are usually mild: hesitation can suggest thoughtfulness, courtesy, uncertainty, or emotional reserve rather than fear. Hesitatingly is standard in both British and American English and works in formal reporting as well as literary narration. It is especially useful when the writer wants to show both what a person did and the visible pause or uncertainty accompanying the action.
adverbIn a hesitant manner, with delay, uncertainty, or reluctance to act or speak.
- With hesitation, delay, or uncertainty; in a tentative or indecisive manner.
"She pushed open the door hesitatingly, as if unsure whether she was welcome."
"He reached for the telephone hesitatingly, then pulled his hand back."
"The witness answered hesitatingly, choosing each word with visible care."
At its most expressive, “hesitatingly” makes a momentary pause visible in the rhythm of a sentence.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How hesitatingly is actually used
Standard in formal and informal English, this adverb often conveys mild uncertainty or reluctance. Depending on context, it may also suggest thoughtfulness, caution, or emotional reserve rather than fear.