Word
tentatively
Phoneticsten·ta·tive·ly, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈtɛntətɪvɫi/
UK/tˈɛntətˌɪvli/
Adverb of manner
Definition
adv. to do something in a way that shows you are not sure or are waiting to see what happens. You use this when you are acting carefully because you might change your mind later.
adv. in a manner indicating a lack of confidence or certainty; subject to further confirmation or change. Typically modifies verbs related to physical movement or decision-making.
Examples
“She tentatively stepped onto the thin ice.”
“The committee tentatively scheduled the next meeting for Friday, pending the final budget approval.”
“The diplomat tentatively suggested a compromise, carefully watching the faces of the opposing delegates to gauge whether the proposal might be met with outright hostility or cautious interest.”
Examples
simple
“She tentatively stepped onto the thin ice.”
contextual
“The committee tentatively scheduled the next meeting for Friday, pending the final budget approval.”
complex
“The diplomat tentatively suggested a compromise, carefully watching the faces of the opposing delegates to gauge whether the proposal might be met with outright hostility or cautious interest.”
Usage
Typically placed before the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.
Real-World Examples
“It may be reasonable to tentatively believe the result, but hold it more loosely and be open to revising your view as more evidence comes in.” “In a less turbulent country than Afghanistan, we’d be glancing tentatively in the direction of a happy ending.” “It’s easy to see why he’s been tentatively compared with Rodri.” Etymology
From tentative + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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