hesitant expression

[/ˈhɛzɪtənt ɪkˈsprɛʃən/]
nounpl: hesitant expressions
expressão hesitante
1. a facial expression or manner of speaking that shows uncertainty, doubt, or reluctance to speak or act
She had a hesitant expression on her face when asked about her plans.
Ela tinha uma expressão hesitante no rosto quando perguntaram sobre seus planos.
2. a verbal or non-verbal communication that conveys indecision or lack of confidence
His hesitant expression suggested he wasn't entirely convinced by the proposal.
Sua expressão hesitante sugeriu que ele não estava totalmente convencido pela proposta.
In Brazilian culture, hesitant expressions are often interpreted as a sign of politeness or respect, particularly in hierarchical business settings. Americans tend to view hesitant expressions more negatively, associating them with lack of confidence or credibility. The interpretation varies significantly based on context and relationship between speakers.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
uncertain expressiondoubtful expressiontentative expressionwavering expressionindecisive expression
Antonyms / Antônimos
confident expressionassured expressiondefinite expressionresolute expression

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
expressão hesitante
Standard term used throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
expressão de dúvida
Common colloquial alternative
São Paulo
expressão incerta
Alternative formal usage
Portugal
expressão vacilante
European Portuguese variant

Related Words

hesitationuncertaintydoubtreluctanceindecisiondemeanor

Related Idioms & Phrases

read someone's expression
a look of hesitation
unable to hide one's doubts
written all over their face
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