About
The character "躇" is predominantly found within the compound "躊躇" to denote hesitation, and its composition merges the "足" radical, associated with the foot, with "著" acting as a phonetic indicator, pointing to an initial connection to physical motion like treading or pacing. Originally possessing a more independent sense related to stepping, the character has gradually seen its solitary meaning fade, becoming nearly exclusive to its paired form where the literal implication of foot movement has shifted toward the figurative expression of psychological uncertainty or wavering decision. This evolution in meaning maintains a conceptual bridge between the character's structural basis in action and its current abstract application, reflecting a linguistic adaptation from concrete behavior to mental state.
Example Sentences Hide
他在门口踌躇。
我踌躇了一会儿。
她面对选择时总是踌躇。
不要踌躇，赶紧行动吧。
他在重要决定前踌躇不定。
尽管有些踌躇，他还是接受了邀请。
投资者对市场波动感到踌躇。
在人生的十字路口，他踌躇良久才做出选择。