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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.

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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.

“Many of these individuals are effectively prisoners of bureaucratic incompetence, inaction, and indecision, held in place not by law, but by a system that has failed to move.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

But it doesn’t and the real victim of the indecision is Powell, who is rarely given a reaction to play.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2026

The formation of a spinning top candle suggests a degree of near-term indecision and possible fatigue following the prior week’s powerful 15.5% surge.

From Barron's • Feb. 17, 2026

January volume was the strongest in the past seven months, while the trading range was unusually tight, pointing to growing indecision.

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

A moment of indecision passed while the two men stared at each other.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy

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