B1verbemotionswork
US/ˈhez.ə.teɪt/
UK/ˈhez.ɪ.teɪt/
to pause before you do or say something because you are unsure or nervous
In context
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
She hesitated for a moment before opening the letter from the university.
I hesitated between the two job offers for weeks before choosing the smaller company.
Words that go with hesitate
verb + preposition
- hesitate toPlease don't hesitate to call if you need anything.
- hesitate for a momentHe hesitated for a moment, then said yes.
- hesitate beforeMany people hesitate before buying a car online.
- hesitate betweenCustomers often hesitate between the two cheaper models.
- hesitate overShe hesitated over the menu for ages and then ordered pho.
verb + adverb
- hesitate slightlyShe hesitated slightly before answering the question.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Please don't hesitate contacting us.Correct: Please don't hesitate to contact us.