indecision

noun

in·​de·​ci·​sion ˌin-di-ˈsi-zhən 

: a wavering between two or more possible courses of action : irresolution

Synonyms

• faltering
• fence-sitting
• hesitance
• hesitancy
• hesitation
• irresolution
• pause
• shilly-shally
• shilly-shallying
• vacillation
• wavering
• wobbling
• wabbling

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

William Jackson Harper’s character, Chidi, with all his moral dilemmas and indecision, helps guide her, but in turn, learns to be more decisive through Eleanor’s impulsive courage. —Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025

Sanders is a sensitive topic in the Giants building, which reflects the organization’s indecision and ongoing deliberation about him. —Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 16 Apr. 2025

Issues with the blockers, problems with an overload, trouble clearing the ball, and indecision between the sticks — these are all elements that suggest Arsenal’s precise deliveries on top of the goalkeeper could do real damage over the two legs against Madrid. —Thom Harris, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2025

Today, Jesse shares his thoughts via email about the season finale, including Grant's indecision on proposal day, Litia's conversation with the Bachelor on After the Final Rose, Clayton's mullet, and more. —Kristen Baldwin, EW.com, 26 Mar. 2025

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

Rhymes for indecision

• cablevision
• circumcision
• imprecision
• subdivision
• supervision
• television
• abscission
• collision
• decision
• derision
• division
• elision

Kids Definition

indecision

noun

in·​de·​ci·​sion ˌin-di-ˈsizh-ən 

: slowness or trouble in making up one's mind