Translation guide
How to express hesitation or reluctance in Japanese, from mild indecision to strong unwillingness.
The speaker is unsure or pauses before acting, often due to doubt or lack of confidence.
A general verb meaning 'to hesitate'. Can be used for momentary pauses before speaking or acting.
He hesitated to answer.
To be unable to decide between options; to waver. Often used when choosing between two or more things.
Pattern for 'hesitate whether to do something or not'.
I'm hesitating about whether to tell him.
The speaker feels resistance or unwillingness, often due to discomfort, fear, or social pressure.
Literally 'the feeling doesn't advance'. Expresses reluctance or lack of enthusiasm. Very common.
The speaker holds back from saying something due to politeness, fear of offending, or shyness.
The speaker pauses to consider risks or consequences before acting.
To become cautious; to act with care. Implies a deliberate hesitation to avoid mistakes.
She hesitated before entering the room.
Please say it without hesitation.
どの道を行くか迷っている。
I'm hesitating about which road to take.
I'm hesitant about that job. (I don't feel like doing it.)
Not in the mood; not keen. Slightly more casual than 気が進まない.
He's hesitant about the plan. (He's not keen on it.)
Idiom: 'to step with the second foot', meaning to hesitate due to reluctance or fear. Somewhat literary.
I hesitated at the high price.
Hard to say; difficult to bring up. Used when the topic is awkward or embarrassing.
That's a bit hard to say. (I'm hesitant to mention it.)
To falter in speech; to mumble or hesitate while speaking.
He hesitated when asked his name.
Since it's an important decision, I'm being cautious (hesitant).
Formal word for 'hesitate', often used in writing or formal speech.
He hesitated to sign the contract.
get lost (hesitate about the way)
The English phrase 'be hesitant' is often better expressed with specific Japanese verbs or set phrases rather than a direct translation. Using ためらっている is correct but can sound stiff in casual conversation. Consider 気が進まない or 迷っている for more natural speech.
Don't hesitate to ask questions.
Uses 遠慮 (reserve) instead of direct 'hesitate'