Translation guide
How to express acting or speaking in a hesitant, indecisive, or wavering manner in Japanese.
Describing an action done with hesitation or lack of firm decision.
Adverb meaning 'tending to hesitate', often used for actions done with visible reluctance or indecision.
彼はためらいがちにドアを開けた。
He opened the door irresolutely.
Literally 'with an unboiled attitude', meaning acting wishy-washy or noncommittal. Often used for people who can't make up their minds.
彼女は煮え切らない態度で返事をした。
She replied irresolutely.
Onomatopoeic adverb for dawdling or acting slowly due to indecision. Casual.
ぐずぐずと決断を先延ばしにした。
He irresolutely put off making a decision.
Adverb from the noun meaning 'indecisiveness'. More formal and often used to describe a person's character.
彼は優柔不断に行動した。
He acted irresolutely.
Describing speech or movement that is unsteady due to uncertainty.
Literally 'while lost/confused', used for actions done while unsure of the right course.
彼は迷いながら話し始めた。
He began to speak irresolutely.
Onomatopoeia for unsteady movement, either physically or in decision-making. Can imply dizziness or lack of direction.
There is no single Japanese adverb that perfectly matches 'irresolutely' in all contexts. Choose the expression based on whether you mean hesitation, indecision, or wavering movement.
彼はふらふらと部屋を出て行った。
He left the room irresolutely.
Adverb for faltering speech or steps, often due to nervousness or lack of confidence.
彼女はたどたどしく説明した。
She explained irresolutely.