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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:

“There’s indecision, and catching a baseball at your ankles kind of speaks to where his head is at right now,” Roberts said.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 19, 2026

When I wrote last year about this group of longtime friends whose reunion got derailed by indecision, text-chain confusion and hurt feelings, it struck a chord with readers.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 15, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 13, 2026

The Dow Jones Industrial Average shows signs of fading upside momentum and indecision near 50,000.

From Barron's May 15, 2026

The 12TH JUROR’S face is a mask of indecision, then he suddenly raises his hand.

From "Twelve Angry Men" by Reginald Rose

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