hesitation about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'hesitation about' is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to describe feelings of uncertainty, doubt, or apprehension about something. For example, "There was a moment of hesitation about the proposal before the team agreed to it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"You already see hesitation about the large deficit he's creating, hesitance about the health care plan.

The New York Times

In separate interviews, they showed no hesitation about departing.

The New York Times - Arts

ABC executives have no hesitation about their plans.

The New York Times

I'll have no hesitation about taking a job elsewhere".

The Guardian

"So I had no hesitation about saying yes.

The New York Times - Magazine

5. a) Would you have any hesitation about appointing a Muslim to the federal bench?

The New York Times

"But I think there's usually a hesitation about the balance of risk.

The New York Times

Audi's hesitation about selling a purely electric vehicle is nothing new.

The New York Times

I don't look Indian but then there's this little bit of hesitation about jumping on me".

The New York Times

Given the circumstances, did you have any hesitation about taking it?

The New York Times

But, he said, "There is always a hesitation about award inflation".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hesitation about", clearly state the cause or object of the hesitation to provide context and meaning. For example, instead of just saying "There was hesitation", specify "There was "hesitation about" accepting the offer".

Common error

Ensure that the subject experiencing "hesitation about" is clearly identified. Avoid ambiguous sentences like "Hesitation was felt", and instead specify who felt the hesitation, such as "The committee felt "hesitation about" the proposal".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hesitation about" functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or noun to express a feeling of reluctance, doubt, or uncertainty concerning something. Ludwig confirms its appropriate use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hesitation about" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to express reluctance, doubt, or uncertainty regarding a particular subject. As Ludwig AI validates, this phrase is widely used in news, scientific, and general writing contexts. When using this phrase, make sure to clearly specify the cause or object of the hesitation to provide clarity. While alternatives exist, "hesitation about" remains a direct and effective way to communicate a lack of complete confidence or willingness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reluctance regarding

Replaces "hesitation" with "reluctance" and "about" with "regarding", indicating a disinclination or unwillingness.

reservations concerning

Substitutes "hesitation" with "reservations" and "about" with "concerning", suggesting doubts or qualifications.

doubts pertaining to

Replaces "hesitation" with "doubts" and "about" with "pertaining to", emphasizing uncertainty or disbelief.

apprehension regarding

Substitutes "hesitation" with "apprehension" and "about" with "regarding", highlighting anxiety or fear.

unease surrounding

Replaces "hesitation" with "unease" and "about" with "surrounding", indicating a feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

second thoughts on

Replaces "hesitation" with "second thoughts" and "about" with "on", suggesting a reconsideration or questioning of a decision.

reluctance with respect to

Replaces "hesitation" with "reluctance" and "about" with "with respect to", indicating an unwillingness or disinclination in relation to something.

misgivings concerning

Substitutes "hesitation" with "misgivings" and "about" with "concerning", suggesting feelings of doubt or apprehension.

scruples about

Replaces "hesitation" with "scruples", indicating moral or ethical considerations causing hesitation.

qualms regarding

Substitutes "hesitation" with "qualms" and "about" with "regarding", suggesting feelings of doubt or uneasiness.

FAQs

How can I use "hesitation about" in a sentence?

Use "hesitation about" to express doubt, reluctance, or uncertainty regarding a particular topic or action. For example, "She expressed "hesitation about" the new policy".

What are some alternatives to "hesitation about"?

You can use alternatives like "reluctance regarding", "reservations concerning", or "doubts pertaining to" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "hesitation about" or "hesitation towards"?

"Hesitation about" is generally preferred and more common in contemporary English usage. "Hesitation towards" is less frequent but not necessarily incorrect; the best choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance.

What's the difference between "hesitation about" and "uncertainty about"?

"Hesitation about" implies a pause or reluctance before acting or deciding, while "uncertainty about" suggests a lack of clarity or knowledge. You might have "hesitation about" a decision even if you're certain of the facts, but "uncertainty about" the facts would naturally lead to "hesitation about" the decision.