How Do You Spell TENTATIVE?

Pronunciation: [tˈɛntətˌɪv] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "tentative" can be complicated for English learners because it contains several letter combinations that do not necessarily match their corresponding sounds. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈtɛntətɪv/, which breaks down the sounds into their individual phonemes. The letter "a" in the second syllable is pronounced as a schwa sound, which further complicates the spelling. Overall, mastering the spelling of "tentative" requires both an understanding of English orthography and phonology.

TENTATIVE Meaning and Definition

  1. Tentative is an adjective that describes something that is not final, fixed, or certain, but rather provisional or subject to change. It implies a certain level of caution, hesitancy, or experimentation in approaching a situation, decision, or judgment.

    In the context of actions or plans, tentative can refer to those that are done with some uncertainty or hesitation about the outcome. It suggests a temporary nature, indicating that further adjustments or modifications might be necessary based on future developments or additional information.

    When used to describe opinions, statements, or beliefs, tentative implies that they are not firmly established or fully endorsed, but rather presented in a cautious or speculative manner. It represents a degree of openness to alternative viewpoints or possibilities.

    Tentative can also denote something that is done tentatively, or with timidity, as in a hesitant or unsure manner. It suggests a lack of confidence or conviction in one's actions or demeanor.

    Furthermore, in interpersonal interactions or relationships, tentative can describe a reserved or cautious approach, whereby one might be testing the waters or feeling out the dynamics before fully engaging or committing.

    Overall, the term tentative conveys a sense of uncertainty, flexibility, or provisional nature, emphasizing the need for further evaluation or confirmation before reaching a definitive conclusion or commitment.

  2. Experimental; noting an opinion or diagnosis based upon insufficient data and subject to change.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. Trying; essaying; experimental.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for TENTATIVE *

* 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.

Other Common Misspellings for TENTATIVE

Etymology of TENTATIVE

The word "tentative" has its roots in the Latin language. It is derived from the Latin word "tentātīvus", which comes from the verb "tentāre", meaning "to try" or "to attempt". The original Latin term referred to something that was done as an experiment or trial, without certainty or finality. Over time, it entered the English language, maintaining a similar meaning of something uncertain, provisional, or subject to change.

Similar spelling word for TENTATIVE

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