tentative
/ˈtɛntətɪv/
Group 22Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Not certain or fixed; provisional; done without confidence; hesitant GRE
Example in Context
The committee reached a tentative agreement that would require further negotiation before it could be finalized and announced publicly.
Synonyms
uncertainhesitantcautious
Etymology
To try something out, not fully committed or certain.
- tentare (Latin) — to try
Memory Aid
⏳Sounds like “ten to five”
At TEN TO FIVE, I’m TENTATIVE about whether to stay or go!
Visual Association
🤔A person hesitating at a crossroads, unsure which path to take.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “tentative” mean on the GRE?
tentative (adjective) means “Not certain or fixed; provisional; done without confidence; hesitant”. The committee reached a tentative agreement that would require further negotiation before it could be finalized and announced publicly.
How to remember “tentative” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “tentative” sounds like “ten to five”. At TEN TO FIVE, I’m TENTATIVE about whether to stay or go!
What are synonyms for “tentative”?
Common synonyms: uncertain, hesitant, cautious.