betänklighet

Betänklighet is a German noun that translates to misgiving, doubt, or scruple. It refers to a feeling of unease or apprehension about something, often related to a moral or ethical concern. It can also denote a hesitation or reluctance to proceed with an action due to a sense of uncertainty or potential negative consequences. The word implies a moment of reflection where one considers the potential downsides or questionable aspects of a situation before making a decision or taking a step.

The concept of betänklighet is rooted in the German verb betrachten, meaning to consider or regard. Therefore, betänklighet signifies a state of having considered something and found it to be problematic or worthy of further thought. It is not necessarily a complete refusal or outright objection, but rather a pause for contemplation. This feeling can arise in various contexts, from personal dilemmas to professional decisions, and it often signals a desire for caution and a thorough examination of the facts or principles involved.