As a noun:
* After a moment of hesitation, she finally agreed to go to the party. (Indicates a pause before making a decision)
* The witness's hesitation when asked about the suspect raised suspicions. (Indicates doubt or reluctance)
* The team's hesitation in the final quarter cost them the game. (Indicates a delay or lack of action)
* There was no hesitation in her voice as she answered the question. (Indicates confidence and decisiveness)
As a verb:
* He hesitated before answering, clearly unsure of what to say. (Indicates pausing to consider)
* Don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. (Indicates encouragement to act without delay)
* The car hesitated before starting, sputtering to life. (Indicates a temporary pause in function)
As an adjective (rare):
* His hesitant steps betrayed his nervousness. (Describes a state of uncertainty or reluctance)
Remember, "hesitation" can also be used figuratively to describe things that seem to pause or delay, even if they are not literally people or actions:
* The progress of the project was met with a hesitation from the investors. (Indicates a reluctance to proceed)
* The economy showed signs of hesitation after the recent financial crisis. (Indicates a period of slow growth or uncertainty)
Choose the best usage based on the context and meaning you wish to convey.