tentatively
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.
“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.”
Typically placed before the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.
“In a less turbulent country than Afghanistan, we’d be glancing tentatively in the direction of a happy ending.”
“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.”
From tentative + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.