ENGLISH DICTIONARY

Tentative

Definition, Meaning & Examples

Pronunciation /ˈtɛntətɪv/ · Part of speech noun

Quick meaning: Tentative is a noun meaning A trial; an experiment; an attempt.

Meaning

A trial; an experiment; an attempt.

More Meanings

  1. (Malaysia) A schedule for an event or a programme.
  2. Of or pertaining to a trial or trials; essaying; experimental.
  3. Uncertain; subject to future change.
  4. Restrained; polite; feeling one's way, not using full force.

Example Sentences

He gave a tentative answer, unsure of the final outcome.
Her tentative steps showed her nervousness as she entered the room.
We have a tentative plan for the weekend, but nothing is confirmed yet.
Hegseth's reference to the report being "low confidence" suggest it is tentative and its findings may change as more detail emerges.

Word Forms

Synonyms for tentative

Depending on context, synonyms include unsettled, doubtful, conditional, probationary, provisional.

Antonyms for tentative

Common opposites include conclusive, definitive, certain.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include conditional, probationary, doubtful, unsettled, provisional, experimental.

Related Dictionary Tools

Sources & Attribution

FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0

Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.