tentative
adjective
- uncertain, subject to change
Wiktionary
Pronunciation: /ˈtɛntətɪv/ / /ˈtɛntəʔɪf/ / /ˈtɛntəhɪf/
adj
Etymology: From Medieval Latin tentātīvus (“trying, testing”), from tentō, past participle tentātus (“to try, test”); see tent, tempt.
- Of or pertaining to a trial or trials; essaying; experimental.
- Uncertain; subject to future change.
“He gave a tentative answer, unsure of the final outcome.”
“We have a tentative plan for the weekend, but nothing is confirmed yet.”
- Restrained; polite; feeling one's way, not using full force.
“Her tentative steps showed her nervousness as she entered the room.”
noun
Etymology: From Medieval Latin tentātīvus (“trying, testing”), from tentō, past participle tentātus (“to try, test”); see tent, tempt.
- A trial; an experiment; an attempt.
- A schedule for an event or a programme.