# tentative

/ˈtɛnətɪv/ (US) · /tˈɛntətˌɪv/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tentative
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. uncertain or provisional

adjective · CEFR B2

not certain or fixed; something that might change later.

For teachers: provisional or subject to future revision; not definite or final.

- We have a tentative plan to meet on Friday, but I need to check my work schedule first.
- The two companies reached a tentative agreement, though several minor clauses regarding intellectual property remain subject to further negotiation.

Usage: Often used with nouns like 'agreement', 'plan', 'schedule', or 'conclusion'.

### 2. hesitant or shy

adjective · CEFR B2

done in a way that shows you are not confident or sure.

For teachers: indicating a lack of confidence or a sense of hesitation; cautious and not fully committed.

- The child took a few tentative steps toward the puppy before reaching out to pet it.
- She offered a tentative smile, clearly unsure whether her apology would be accepted by the group.

Usage: Frequently describes physical movements or social gestures like smiles or suggestions.

### 3. an event schedule

noun · CEFR C1 · Dialect

a plan or schedule for a program or event.

For teachers: a schedule, itinerary, or programme for an event.

- The organiser sent out the tentative for the three-day conference last night.
- Please review the tentative for the wedding weekend and let us know if any timings conflict with your travel arrangements.

Teaching tip: This noun sense is specific to Malaysian English; in other varieties, 'tentative' is almost exclusively an adjective.

## Examples

- We made a tentative plan to meet on Friday.
- The researchers reached a tentative conclusion based on the early data, though more testing is required.
- Her first steps onto the ice were tentative and shaky, reflecting a deep-seated fear of falling that she had not yet overcome.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.