Tentative Meaning and Definition
Tentative
Pronunciation
/tənˈtætɪv/
Part of Speech
Noun or Adjective
Definition
Athing that is not yet settled, decided, or confirmed.
Examples
- The company has made a tentative offer to acquire the rival firm.
- The plans for the project are still tentative and may change.
Synonyms
- Preliminary
- Potential
Antonyms
- Final
- Confirmed
Etymology
From Latin “tentativus,” from “tentare,” to try or test.
Usage Notes
In general, the word “tentative” is used to describe something that is not yet certain or settled, but is being considered or explored.
Cultural References
The term “tentative” has been used in various contexts, including music, literature, and film. For example, the album “Tentative” by the band Glass Hammer features a song with the same title.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Tentative effort/plan/decision
Related Words or Phrases
- Preliminary
- Potential
- Proposed
Collocations
Tentative plans/offer/ proposal/schedule
Frequency of Use
The word “tentative” is a relatively common term in everyday language, particularly in professional and business contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Tenative
- Tentativ