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

Delays and indecision have already cost us valuable time. —Josh McBroom, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2025

And all three other members express regret about George’s indecision costing the group a spot in the lineup for the historic marathon Live Aid concert at London’s Wembley Stadium. —David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 9 June 2025

Tiller explained that the original inspiration for the split-tone hairstyle came from her indecision about whether to go dark or light. —Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 May 2025

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

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