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Synonyms

indecision

American  
[in-di-sizh-uhn] / ˌɪn dɪˈsɪʒ ən /

noun

  1. inability to decide.


Etymology

Origin of indecision

First recorded in 1755–65; in- 3 + decision


Explanation

If you're torn between going to your best friend's birthday party and racing go-carts with your sister, you're experiencing indecision, or difficulty making up your mind. Whenever there are at least two great choices, you're sure to feel at least a little indecision. Too many options at the grocery story can cause indecision, as can choosing a college major or picking just one friend to take with you to Disney World. Any time you waver or hesitate between possibilities, it's evidence of your indecision.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing indecision

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

He described how the incredibly complex investigation as fundamentally poorly resourced "from start to finish", hampered by "indecision and apathy" from senior officers, as well as a lack of cooperation from UK Special Forces command.

From BBC ● Oct. 13, 2026

An epic tale inspired by Hitler's indecision about whether to invade Britain, Archer poured everything into it.

From BBC ● Oct. 5, 2026

If a case does reach them, let’s hope the Justices are ready to clear up their 4-4 indecision.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 27, 2026

My vision crowded with strands in the wake of my indecision.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 13, 2026

As I stood in this state of indecision, there was a dry crack of wood and a careless disturbance of undergrowth perhaps fifty feet into the woods—something good-sized and unseen.

From "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

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