tentative
UK: ˈtɛntətɪv | US: ˈtɛntətɪv
adj. not certain or fixed; provisional
adj. hesitant or cautious
n. something done as an experiment or trial
tentative = tent<try> + ative<adjective suffix>
- tent (from Latin tentare, variant of temptare "to try, test")
- ative (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, indicating "relating to or tending to")
Etymology Origin:
The word tentative traces back to Latin tentare, meaning "to try" or "test," which later evolved into Old French tentatif. The suffix -ative (from Latin -ativus) was added to form an adjective meaning "experimental" or "uncertain." The core idea of "testing" persists in its modern sense of being provisional or hesitant.
The team made a tentative plan, pending further approval.
She gave a tentative answer, unsure of the details.
His handshake was tentative, revealing his nervousness.
The treaty is only a tentative agreement so far.
We set a tentative date for the meeting next month.