Pronunciation: [hˈɛsɪtˌe͡ɪtɪŋ] (IPA) 
Hesitating is a verb that means to pause before doing or saying something. The correct spelling of this word is /ˈhɛzɪteɪtɪŋ/, which is pronounced as "hez-uh-tey-ting." The word starts with the consonant cluster "h-z," followed by the short "e" vowel sound, and ends with the "t" and "ing" sound. Remembering the "i" after "z" in the spelling of hesitating can be tricky, but it is important for clear and effective communication.
Hesitating, as a verb or action, refers to the act of pausing, delaying, or showing reluctance or uncertainty before making a decision, taking action, or expressing oneself. It is a temporary state of indecision, often characterized by a lack of confidence or hesitation in moving forward.
When someone hesitates, they may experience internal conflicting thoughts, doubts, or fears, causing them to pause before proceeding with a particular course of action. It is a hesitation that emerges when we feel unsure about the consequences, lack information, or are balancing conflicting options.
Hesitating is commonly associated with a mental process that involves evaluating risks, weighing alternatives, and considering the potential outcomes. It can also stem from an individual's lack of confidence or apprehension, leading to a momentary delay in proceeding with a chosen action.
This term can be applied to a variety of situations, from making a decision, choosing between options, expressing opinions, to engaging in physical actions. Hesitating can occur in any aspect of life, ranging from personal relationships and career choices to daily routine activities.
In summary, hesitating involves a temporary moment of uncertainty or indecision, where an individual pauses or delays before making a decision or taking action due to doubts, fears, lack of information, or conflicting thoughts. It is a natural response that allows individuals to consider and evaluate alternatives before proceeding.
Pausing; stammering.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word hesitating originated from the Old French word hesitation, which is derived from the Latin word haesitatio or haesitare. In Latin, haesitatio means a hesitation, uncertainty, or indecision, while haesitare means to hesitate or be uncertain.
