indecision

noun

in·​de·​ci·​sion ˌin-di-ˈsi-zhən How to pronounce indecision (audio)
: a wavering between two or more possible courses of action : irresolution

Examples of indecision in a Sentence

They were paralyzed by indecision. her indecision about where to go for dinner, while everyone was getting hungrier by the minute, was frustrating
Recent Examples on the Web Johnson’s lack of clarity on a path forward was criticized Tuesday by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who told the speaker in a meeting that his indecision is consequential for Ukraine, the United States and all Western countries. Abigail Hauslohner, Washington Post, 13 Mar. 2024 Shop these sweater dresses that fit any outfit brief and cut out that winter dressing indecision once and for all. Melissa Epifano, Peoplemag, 20 Feb. 2024 But his resolve apparently turned to indecision after meeting with conservatives on Thursday morning. David Sivak, Washington Examiner, 12 Jan. 2024 The impact of Congress’s indecision is already calamitous. Nick Paton Walsh, CNN, 19 Feb. 2024 After a week of indecision post-birth, Silverstein suggested Cricket, and Philipps was into it. Jessica Booth, Peoplemag, 10 Jan. 2024 The report is highly critical of local police commanders but also criticizes state law enforcement, saying its officers added to the disorganization and confusion that contributed to delays and indecision after the shooter burst into the school. Mark Berman, Washington Post, 18 Jan. 2024 Behind all this is the notion that projecting weakness and indecision will translate into perceptions of strength and political popularity. Paul Bedard, Washington Examiner, 11 Jan. 2024 The indecision is magnified in the formation of a weekly doji. Tom Aspray, Forbes, 28 Nov. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'indecision.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

French indécision, from indécis undecided, from Late Latin indecisus, from Latin in- + decisus, past participle of decidere to decide

First Known Use

circa 1763, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of indecision was circa 1763

Dictionary Entries Near indecision

Cite this Entry

“Indecision.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indecision. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

indecision

noun
in·​de·​ci·​sion ˌin-di-ˈsizh-ən How to pronounce indecision (audio)
: slowness or trouble in making up one's mind

More from Merriam-Webster on indecision

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