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

At a time when United need to build positive momentum, they are hobbled by indecision and tactical turbulence. —Carl Anka, New York Times, 12 May 2025

Oklahoma City preys on indecision — a harsher word for selectiveness. —Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 9 May 2025

After each round of voting ended in indecision, the college released black smoke through a chimney on the chapel’s roof. —Jonathan Horwitz, Oc Register, 9 May 2025

From a tonal split on eyeshadows to a tie between blunt cuts and hair extensions, the best moments existed in the indecision. —India Espy-Jones, Essence, 7 Apr. 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