Tentatively
ˈtɛntətɪvli
Definitions
In a hesitant or uncertain manner; not fully worked out or agreed upon; subject to change.
ˈtɛntətɪvli
In a way that is not certain or fixed; provisionally.
The project's start date is tentatively scheduled for next month.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're a kid deciding what to do for a party, but you're not sure yet, so you 'tentatively' say you might have a bounce house - it's not a definite plan.
👶 For kids: When you do something a little bit unsure, like when you're not sure if you want to eat broccoli, so you try a little bit.
More Examples
She tentatively accepted the job offer, pending the details of the contract.
They tentatively agreed to meet again next week.
How It's Used
"The company is tentatively planning to release the new product next quarter."
"The two sides tentatively agreed to a ceasefire, pending further discussions."
"She tentatively reached out to touch his hand, unsure of his reaction."
From Latin *tentare* 'to try, test' + -ative + -ly, reflecting the action of trying or experimenting with something.
Appeared in the late 16th century, initially used in the context of trying or attempting something.
Memory tip
Think of a tent that might fall over. Actions done tentatively are like that – unsure, not yet stable.