hésiter

to hesitate

verb eh-zee-TEH Less Common

Usage Note

hésiter is typically followed by à + infinitive ('to hesitate to do something') or entre + nouns ('to hesitate between options'). The noun l'hésitation is used in the same way as English 'hesitation'. N'hésitez pas! is a polite invitation meaning 'don't hesitate to ask'.

Examples

"Elle hésite à lui répondre."

Natural Translation

She hesitates to answer him.

Literal Translation

She hesitates to him to-respond.

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