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

Emergencies can happen at any time — and knowing how to overcome feelings of panic, stress and indecision can be a matter of life or death. —Andee Tagle, NPR, 4 June 2025

On the other hand, a leader who reacts with visible distress or indecision can unintentionally escalate collective anxiety. —Irma Becerra, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025

Instead, even after Democrats realized Biden’s campaign couldn’t continue, the party faced nearly a month of indecision. —Michelle Goldberg, Mercury News, 17 May 2025

This moment of indecision allows Palacios to find Wirtz with space to carry the ball. —Mark Carey, New York Times, 16 May 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