hesitate
verb (used without object)
to be reluctant or wait to act because of fear, indecision, or disinclination.
have hesitated
-
present perfectof hesitate.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
While 27 states have agreed to use SAVE, others have hesitated, concerned not only about inaccuracies, but also about privacy and the data’s potential to be used in immigration enforcement.
From Salon ● Feb. 27, 2026
He wouldn’t guarantee their safety, which explains why nations have hesitated to contribute.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 10, 2025
U.S. employers have hesitated to add commercial insurance coverage for anti-obesity medicines in 2025 due to drug spending concerns, and most ex-U.S. countries don’t cover GLP-1s for the treatment of obesity.
From Barron's ● Sep. 26, 2025
I must have hesitated, because Joe, the sales representative, became my hype man: “Let’s do it,” he said.
From Slate ● Jun. 22, 2025
Number two, the dog would not normally have hesitated.
From "Woodsong" by Gary Paulsen
