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Definition of tentatively

tentatively

/ˈtɛn.tə.tɪv.li/
ten · ta · tive · ly
Adjective:tentative
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tentatively Lexical Profile

tentatively Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a provisional, experimental, or unconfirmed manner, subject to further change or review.

Example

"The committee has tentatively scheduled the annual conference for the second week of October."

2

In a hesitant, cautious, or uncertain manner, lacking confidence.

Example

"She knocked tentatively on the half-open office door before stepping inside."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for tentatively

• Nearby Words

tentacled
tentacled snake
tentative
tentatively
tentativeness
tenth
tenthly

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective tentative plus the adverbial suffix -ly. Tentative derives from Medieval Latin tentativus ('trying, testing'), from Latin tentare, a variant of temptare ('to feel, try, or test').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tentatively. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tentatively
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