How to pronounce
hesitate
If you are a non-native English speaker, correctly pronouncing the word "hesitate" can be tricky. Some of the common incorrect pronunciations are "hez-eh-tayt" or "hez-eh-tit."
In order to pronounce "hesitate" correctly, start by saying the first two syllables: "heh," with a short "i" sound in your voice, and then "zay," with a long "a" sound. The third syllable should be pronounced with a short "eh" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a "t" sound that is somewhat aspirated. Put it all together and the correct pronunciation of "hesitate" is "heh-zay-teh-t."
When spoken at a normal rate, the two syllables in the middle may sound like one syllable. However, it is important to keep all four syllables distinct to ensure that you are pronouncing the word correctly.
Practice saying the word "hesitate" slowly and then gradually speed up the word until you can say it in a normal rate of speech. Once you have mastered the correct pronunciation of "hesitate," you are well on your way to becoming a more fluent English speaker!
In order to pronounce "hesitate" correctly, start by saying the first two syllables: "heh," with a short "i" sound in your voice, and then "zay," with a long "a" sound. The third syllable should be pronounced with a short "eh" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a "t" sound that is somewhat aspirated. Put it all together and the correct pronunciation of "hesitate" is "heh-zay-teh-t."
When spoken at a normal rate, the two syllables in the middle may sound like one syllable. However, it is important to keep all four syllables distinct to ensure that you are pronouncing the word correctly.
Practice saying the word "hesitate" slowly and then gradually speed up the word until you can say it in a normal rate of speech. Once you have mastered the correct pronunciation of "hesitate," you are well on your way to becoming a more fluent English speaker!
Definition of
hesitate
What does it mean
hesitate
Frequently asked questions
How do you say hesitate correctly?
To pronounce hesitate correctly, break it into three syllables: he-sĭ-tate. Listen to native speakers and try Pronounce AI for focused practice in your conversations. Repeating the word multiple times and recording yourself on getpronounce.com can help you refine your pronunciation.
What are some synonyms for hesitate?
Some synonyms for hesitate include pause, waver, and falter. The choice depends on the context and the nuance you want to convey.
Are there alternative pronunciations of hesitate?
Yes, hesitate may have slight variations based on regional accents. In American English, you might hear HEH-zih-tayt while in British English, some speakers enunciate a lighter vowel sound in the second syllable: HEH-zuh-tayt.
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