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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:

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

A doji candle on June 8 further underscored investor indecision.

From Barron's Jun. 11, 2026

Overspending, indecision, poor judgment and general pigheadedness were characteristic at NeXT from the start.

From The Wall Street Journal May 17, 2026

The song itself is a brooding ballad with an astonishing vocal climax, but will it leave voters trapped in a spider web of indecision?

From BBC May 8, 2026

“Oh, no,” she answered, with a tone of indecision.

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin

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