tentative
What does "tentative" mean?
Tentative describes something that is not fully worked out, concluded, or agreed upon. Think of it as a "soft" or "preliminary" state—like a toe dipped into cold water to test the temperature before committing to a full swim. In professional settings, it is commonly used to describe plans or schedules that are subject to change. It can also describe a person’s behavior, indicating a lack of confidence or hesitation, such as a tentative smile or a shy, uncertain step.
"tentative" in conversation
Scheduling a meeting
Are we still on for lunch on Friday?
Are we still on for lunch on Friday?
It’s tentative right now, I’m waiting to hear back from my boss.
It’s tentative right now, I’m waiting to hear back from my boss.
Used here to indicate the plan is not yet finalized.
Giving feedback
I have a tentative plan for the project launch.
I have a tentative plan for the project launch.
Great, let's review it and lock in the details later.
Great, let's review it and lock in the details later.
Highlights that the plan is a draft rather than a final version.
"tentative" in a sentence
We have reached a tentative agreement on the contract.
We have reached a tentative agreement on the contract.
She took a tentative step onto the frozen pond.
She took a tentative step onto the frozen pond.
The committee offered a tentative approval, pending further financial reports.
The committee offered a tentative approval, pending further financial reports.
