Faltering describes something that’s losing strength, purpose, or confidence, often resulting in hesitation or uncertainty.
History of the Word Faltering
Origins and Early Usage
The word faltering has its origins in the Middle English word “falteren,” which means “to stammer” or “hesitate.” Over time, its usage expanded to encompass a broader range of meanings related to uncertainty and unsteadiness.
Evolution
As the English language evolved, faltering began to be used to describe actions or processes that were hesitant, wavering, or unsteady. This could refer to someone faltering in speech, walking with faltering steps, or even a faltering economy.
Contemporary Usage
In contemporary English, faltering is commonly used as an adjective to describe a state of hesitation, uncertainty, or a loss of confidence. For example, one might refer to a faltering attempt to succeed or a faltering voice in public speaking.
English (Faltering As Adjective)
Etymology
Faltering has Middle English origins, initially meaning “to stammer,” evolving into hesitancy or uncertainty.
Pronunciation
Pronounced: /ˈfɔːltərɪŋ/ (FAWL-tuh-ring).
Forms of Faltering
| Adjective |
Faltering |
| Comparative Degree | more faltering |
| Superlative Degree | most faltering |
| Adverb | Falteringly |
| Noun | Falteringness |
Derived Terms
- Falter
- Falteringly
- Faltered
- Faltering steps
- Faltering voice
- Faltering economy
- Faltering progress
- Faltering confidence
- Faltering performance
- Faltering resolve
Translations
- Spanish: Vacilante
- French: Hésitant
- German: Zögernd
- Italian: Titubante
- Portuguese: Vacilante
- Chinese (Simplified): 踌躇的 (Chóuchú de)
- Japanese: ためらう (Tameru)
- Hindi: लड़खड़ाहट (Laṛkhaḍāhaṭ)
- Urdu: لڑکھڑاہٹ (Laṛkhaḍāhaṭ)
- Russian: Колеблющийся (Koleblyushchiysya)
Synonyms
- Hesitating
- Wavering
- Uncertain
- Indecisive
- Vacillating
Antonyms
- Confident
- Steady
- Resolute
- Unwavering
- Determined
Examples Sentence
- His faltering voice showed nervousness.
- The faltering economy raised concerns.
- She made a faltering attempt to explain.
FAQs (People May Also Ask)
What is the difference between faltering and hesitating?
Faltering often implies a degree of unsteadiness or loss of strength, while hesitating typically indicates a momentary pause or doubt.
Can faltering describe physical actions?
Yes, faltering can describe physical actions that are hesitant, wavering, or unsteady, such as faltering steps.
Is falteringly an adverb form of faltering?
Yes, falteringly is the adverb form of faltering and describes the manner in which something is done hesitantly or unsteadily