tentative with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tentative with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone who is uncertain or hesitant about a particular situation or decision. Example: "She was tentative with her response, unsure of how her words would be received."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

"I thought we got tentative with the lead," Wright said.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not the fastest sedan, but it's never stingy or tentative with power.

The New York Times

They will be more tentative with their putting, trying to eliminate three-putt greens.

The New York Times

The conversation was always very tentative with him and his father was always close by.

The Guardian - Sport

Contreras was tentative with his fastball, but not because he was injured, he said.

The New York Times - Sports

His steps, though clear, are still tentative, with no definitive public declaration from the man himself.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Below is a tentative schedule with the required readings.

Stanford University

"We made a tentative deal with St . Louistoday," Svoboda said.

The New York Times - Sports

A tentative deal with New York City collapsed seven months ago.

The New York Times

Tentative talks with football clubs, including West Ham, had proved inconclusive.

The Guardian - Sport

He made a tentative deal with Democrats, but there is disagreement on the terms.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tentative with", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is being cautious or hesitant about. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the impact of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "tentative with" when a stronger term like "unwilling" or "opposed" more accurately reflects the subject's attitude. "Tentative" suggests a degree of uncertainty or caution, not necessarily outright opposition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tentative with" typically functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, often describing a person's cautious or hesitant approach towards something. This is supported by Ludwig examples showing its usage in describing someone's actions or feelings.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

20%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tentative with" is used to describe a cautious or hesitant approach, often stemming from uncertainty. While grammatically correct and usable, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is not overly common. You'll find it most frequently in news and media contexts, particularly when discussing sports or arts. When writing, consider whether alternatives like "hesitant with" or "cautious with" might be a better fit depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hesitant with

Emphasizes a pause or reluctance before acting or speaking.

cautious with

Highlights the careful and guarded approach taken.

guarded with

Suggests a protective or defensive stance.

reserved with

Implies a restraint in expression or action.

uncertain with

Focuses on the lack of sureness or confidence.

unassertive with

Indicates a lack of forcefulness or confidence in dealing with someone or something.

diffident with

Suggests shyness or a lack of self-confidence.

apprehensive about

Highlights anxiety or fear about a potential outcome.

half-hearted with

Suggests a lack of enthusiasm or commitment.

timid with

Emphasizes a lack of courage or boldness.

FAQs

How can I use "tentative with" in a sentence?

You can use "tentative with" to describe someone being cautious or hesitant about something. For example: "The team was "tentative with" their new strategy, unsure if it would work".

What are some alternatives to saying "tentative with"?

Depending on the context, you could use "hesitant with", "cautious with", or "reserved with" as alternatives.

Is it better to say "tentative with" or "tentative about"?

Both "tentative with" and "tentative about" are grammatically correct, but they convey slightly different nuances. "Tentative with" often refers to being cautious in handling something, while "tentative about" expresses uncertainty or apprehension regarding a situation or decision.

What does it mean when someone is described as "tentative with" something?

It suggests that the person is approaching the situation or object with caution and a degree of uncertainty, often because they are unsure of the outcome or potential consequences.