verb
hesitate
HEZ-ih-tayt/ˈhezɪteɪt/
To pause or hold back because of uncertainty or reluctance.
The speaker hesitates with a hand above the microphone.
Etymology
Latin haesitare described sticking fast as well as stammering. That image of getting stuck also expressed uncertainty: being unable to proceed readily with speech or action.
In context
And question number two, did you spend your money wisely? If you hesitate now and are not so sure, it likely means you're not a good buyer
More examples
- He hesitated at the edge of the pool.
- They did not hesitate to offer help.
- I was hesitating between two choices.
Forms
hesitate · hesitates · hesitated · hesitating
hesitation noun — a pause caused by uncertainty