Words / B1

hez-i-TAYSHUN/ˌhezɪˈteɪʃn/

Hesitation is a pause because you are unsure: a moment’s hesitation; without hesitation. Hesitate is the verb (already in the dictionary). Pause is more neutral; delay can be longer and official. Countable in a hesitation; uncountable in without hesitation. Forms: a hesitation before naming the consultant.

Meaning

A pause because you are not sure; without hesitation means at once.

Examples

• “There was a hesitation before she named the consultant on the form.”
• “She agreed without hesitation, which means at once.”

Good to know

a hesitation; without hesitation. Verb: hesitate. Neutral: a pause. Official wait: a delay. Witness forms / viva answers.

Near in meaning

pause

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