with hesitancy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with hesitancy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or response that is done with uncertainty or reluctance. Example: "She accepted the offer with hesitancy, unsure if it was the right decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

(Although all of the characters lean left, they approach this election with hesitancy).

The New York Times

But the text was greeted with hesitancy by Arab diplomats who have been lobbying for a tougher stance against Israel.

The New York Times

Branislav Ivanovic, Willian and Pedro all flung tantalising low centres into the penalty area when the hosts finally built up some momentum after the interval but, even with the brooding Costa introduced at the break, the delivery was only greeted with hesitancy.

The Guardian - Sport

Martland described unsteadiness of gait, mental confusion, and slowing of muscular movements occasionally combined with hesitancy in speech, tremors of the hands, and nodding of the head.

Alzheimer's and Dementia

In his monograph 'Punch Drunk', Martland described unsteadiness of gait, mental confusion, slowing of muscular movements, occasionally combined with hesitancy in speech, tremors of the hands and nodding of the head.

Alzheimer's Research and Therapy

The definition also recognizes the heterogeneity in vaccination behaviors associated with hesitancy explored in the first two reviews by Gowda et al. and Dube et al. Since hesitancy may not result in vaccine refusal or delay, it is difficult to measure the prevalence and content of vaccine-related concerns.

Human Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

An attempt to take photos and chat with regulars was met with some hesitancy, with most people asking if we were from the police or the Inland Revenue.

Vice

In "Blind Flying" she appears in white with her eyes masked, reaching for the trapeze bar with contrived hesitancy and eventually gliding through the air with feeling.

The New York Times - Arts

They with their awkwardness, blunders and politeness, she with her hesitancy and her bizarre request for white wine (the publican has a bottle somewhere in the back).

The Guardian

But Mr. Hinojosa appears to be approaching the idea with more hesitancy.

The New York Times

During flush economic times, schools are built and added onto with little hesitancy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with hesitancy" when you want to convey a sense of reluctance or uncertainty in taking an action or expressing an opinion. It's suitable when the subject isn't entirely convinced or comfortable with what they're doing or saying.

Common error

Avoid relying on "with hesitancy" excessively, especially in formal writing. While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your phrasing by using synonyms such as "with reluctance" or "with caution" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

Function: The phrase "with hesitancy" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Examples show it describing how decisions are made or how speech is delivered.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "with hesitancy" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase that functions as an adverbial modifier. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys reluctance or uncertainty when describing an action. While versatile across different registers, it's important to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "with reluctance" or "with caution" to maintain variety in your writing. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it also appears in scientific discourse, demonstrating its adaptability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with hesitation

Suggests a pause or delay before acting, often due to uncertainty; very close synonym.

with reluctance

Indicates a disinclination or unwillingness to do something; stronger emphasis on unwillingness than "with hesitancy".

with uncertainty

Highlights the lack of sureness or confidence in the action; focuses on the doubt involved.

with caution

Emphasizes care and circumspection; highlights the prudence in the action.

with reservation

Implies a mental holding back or doubt; emphasizes a lack of complete agreement or acceptance.

with misgivings

Suggests a feeling of doubt or apprehension about the outcome; emphasizes worry.

with trepidation

Implies fear or anxiety about what might happen; stronger emotional component.

with circumspection

Highlights careful consideration of all circumstances before acting; emphasizes thoroughness.

with doubt

Focuses on the feeling of disbelief or lack of conviction.

with a lack of confidence

Emphasizes the absence of self-assurance in performing the action.

FAQs

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

You can use "with hesitancy" to describe an action or statement made with some reluctance or uncertainty. For example, "She accepted the job offer with hesitancy, unsure if it was the right fit".

What are some alternatives to "with hesitancy"?

Alternatives include phrases like "with reluctance", "with hesitation", or "with uncertainty". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "with hesitancy" or "with hesitation"?

Both "with hesitancy" and "with hesitation" are correct and very similar in meaning. "Hesitation" might be slightly more common, but "with hesitancy" is perfectly acceptable and understandable.

What does it mean to do something 'with hesitancy'?

To do something "with hesitancy" implies a lack of complete willingness or confidence. It suggests a degree of reservation or uncertainty about the action being taken.