What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hesitant
Example
She was hesitant to speak up during the meeting. [hesitant: adjective]
Example
He hesitated before jumping into the water. [hesitated: verb]
unsure
Example
I'm unsure if I can finish the project on time. [unsure: adjective]
Example
She was unsure about which direction to take. [unsure: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unsure is more commonly used than hesitant in everyday language. Unsure is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hesitant is less common and refers to a more specific type of behavior or attitude.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between hesitant and unsure?
Both hesitant and unsure are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
