Translation guide
The English verb "hesitate" covers a range of situations from momentary pauses to deep reluctance. In Japanese, the best expression depends on whether you are pausing before speaking, feeling unsure about a decision, or holding back out of consideration for others.
I hesitated for a moment.
To describe a brief hesitation, such as pausing before answering or taking a moment to decide what to do.
The most direct equivalent for "hesitate." Used when you pause or are reluctant to do something. Common in both speech and writing.
He hesitated to answer.
Please don't hesitate to say it.
Often means "to be unsure" or "to waver." Used when you can't decide between options, which naturally involves hesitation.
A formal, somewhat literary term for hesitation. Often used in writing or formal speech.
He made the decision without hesitation.
To express that you are unwilling or feel resistant to doing something, often due to fear, politeness, or discomfort.
Literally "my spirit does not advance." A very natural way to say you are reluctant or hesitant to do something.
I'm hesitant to do that job.
Means "to have resistance." Used when you feel psychological reluctance or hesitation about something.
I'm a bit hesitant to ask him.
Literally "to shrink back." Describes hesitating out of fear or lack of confidence. Somewhat vivid.
He hesitated to go up high.
To describe holding back from saying something because you don't want to be rude, hurt feelings, or impose.
Means "hard to say." Used when you hesitate to bring up a topic because it's awkward or might cause trouble.
It's a bit hard to say this, but...
Means "to hold back out of politeness." Often used when you hesitate to accept an offer or speak up in a social situation.
Please don't hesitate to say anything.
ためらう focuses on the pause or reluctance itself, while 迷う focuses on being undecided. If you can't choose between two options, 迷う is better. If you are simply reluctant to act, ためらう is more precise.
English speakers sometimes try to use 躊躇する in casual conversation, but it sounds overly formal. Stick with ためらう or 迷う for everyday speech.
He hesitated before entering the room.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
どの道を選ぶか迷っている。
I'm hesitating over which path to take.