we were hesitant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'we were hesitant' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to describe a situation when someone was not sure about taking an action. For example: We were hesitant to go out in the rain, but decided to brave the weather.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

"We were hesitant," said Mr. Boyd, of the Colville Tribes.

The New York Times - Science

We were hesitant about repeating those comments here.

The New York Times

The first time we heard this we were hesitant to ask why that was the case.

Cornell University

"Because of some of those concerns, we were hesitant to initiate another study, which would require further consent".

The New York Times

"At first, we were hesitant," he said, "but they were more aggressive in funding capabilities than other companies were.

The New York Times

Afterward, we were hesitant about ordering dessert, but our sweet tooth persevered and we were pleasantly impressed by a sour-tangy Key lime pie with graham cracker crust.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

But we are hesitant to change.

The New York Times

The reason why we are hesitant to commit ourselves to it explicitly is bad past experience.

University of California, Berkeley

We are hesitant to report the situation to higher-ups, as we worry about the consequences for our jobs.

The New York Times

As previously noted, we're allowed to celebrate a Nazi feeling uncomfortable, even if we're hesitant about the punch.

The Guardian

"We're hesitant to do anything to the house and changing what is essentially a museum," Mr. Feist said.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "we were hesitant" with a contrasting statement that describes the ultimate decision, illustrating overcoming the reluctance.

Common error

Avoid using "we were hesitant" repeatedly without explaining the reasons behind the hesitation. This can make your writing sound vague and lacking in detail.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were hesitant" functions as a statement expressing a state of mind, specifically a feeling of reluctance or uncertainty experienced by a group. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes a situation where someone is not sure about taking an action. It often sets the stage for explaining the reasons behind this reluctance or the subsequent actions taken despite it. Examples show use of "we were hesitant" to show actions or decisions that required careful thought.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

30%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were hesitant" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys a sense of reluctance or uncertainty. As Ludwig AI accurately suggests, it's applicable in situations where a group of individuals experiences reservations before making a decision or taking an action. Common across news, science, and academic sources, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts. To enhance clarity, always provide the reasons behind the hesitation. Remember, as indicated by Ludwig's analysis, being transparent about initial reluctance can add depth and credibility to your narrative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were reluctant

Replaces "hesitant" with a synonym that emphasizes unwillingness.

we were unwilling

Uses a more direct synonym for "hesitant", focusing on lack of willingness.

we felt apprehensive

Emphasizes a feeling of anxiety or unease, similar to being hesitant.

we had reservations

Indicates that there were doubts or concerns, leading to hesitation.

we were cautious

Highlights the careful and guarded nature of the hesitation.

we approached with caution

Focuses on the manner of approaching something due to hesitation.

we were wary

Emphasizes a feeling of distrust or suspicion, causing hesitation.

we demurred

A more formal way of saying "we hesitated" or objected mildly.

we shrank from

Suggests a recoiling or avoidance due to hesitation.

we had misgivings

Focuses on the feelings of doubt or apprehension that led to hesitation.

FAQs

What does "we were hesitant" mean?

The phrase "we were hesitant" suggests that a group of people felt uncertain, reluctant, or had reservations about taking a particular action or making a decision.

What can I say instead of "we were hesitant"?

You can use alternatives like "we were reluctant", "we were unwilling", or "we had reservations" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we were hesitant"?

Yes, "we were hesitant" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules for subject-verb agreement and adjective usage.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "we were hesitant" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "we were hesitant" when you want to express that a group experienced some level of reluctance or uncertainty before making a decision or taking an action. Providing context explaining the reason for the hesitation is useful.