What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stammering
Example
He was stammering so much during the presentation that it was difficult to understand him. [stammering: verb]
Example
Her stammering made it hard for her to express herself clearly in social situations. [stammering: gerund or present participle]
hesitation
Example
She spoke with hesitation when asked about her future plans. [hesitation: noun]
Example
He hesitated before answering the question, unsure of how to respond. [hesitated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hesitation is more commonly used than stammering in everyday language. Hesitation is a common experience that most people have encountered at some point in their lives, while stammering is a less common speech disorder.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stammering and hesitation?
Both stammering and hesitation can be used in formal and informal contexts, but stammering may be perceived as more formal due to its association with a medical condition.
