hesitate
verb (used without object)
to be reluctant or wait to act because of fear, indecision, or disinclination.
is hesitating
-
present progressiveof hesitate (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate 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.
Some argue the Bank of Japan is hesitating because it fears higher rates on Japanese government debt would further undermine the country’s finances.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 4, 2026
One of the reasons the Hallmark actress is hesitating: Reports say she's concerned about the potential impact on her daughters.
From Fox News ● Apr. 13, 2019
“I’ve always wondered why the N.F.L. is hesitating to pull the trigger,” he said.
From New York Times ● Apr. 7, 2017
Netherlands international defender Daryl Janmaat, 24, is hesitating over signing a new contract at Feyenoord as he awaits a bid from Arsenal in the summer.
From BBC ● Jan. 30, 2014
She can’t understand why Mr. Reilly is hesitating.
From "Landscape with Invisible Hand" by M.T. Anderson
