The phrase "tentative signs" means small or uncertain indications or clues about something. It suggests that there are hints or evidence, but it is not definite or conclusive. Full definition
American manufacturing has been showing tentative signs of a comeback. (chicagotribune.com)
While exports have been weak for some time, there have been tentative signs of a recovery over recent months. (rba.gov.au)
That trend towards higher inflation expectations continued into U.S. inflation expectations, indicating that the ECB QE announcement, and coincident with tentative signs of stabilization of oil prices, may mark the low point of deflationary fears driving global interest rates to new lows. (blackrockblog.com)