indecision

noun

in·​de·​ci·​sion ˌin-di-ˈsi-zhən How to pronounce indecision (audio)
Synonyms of indecisionnext
: a wavering between two or more possible courses of action : irresolution

Synonyms of indecision

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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
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That indecision has made deals more difficult to close so far. — Jim Bowden, New York Times, 30 July 2026 Because in growing organizations, indecision is rarely neutral. — Nathan Mitchell, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 The result could be a level of indecision that the military cannot afford. — Simon Shuster, The Atlantic, 24 July 2026 That trademark indecision of summer takes root in her words and spreads through the music until her vocals diverge in the chorus, peeling like a clementine’s skin as one shrill line scales upward and the other remains monotone. — Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 21 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for indecision

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of indecision was circa 1763

Rhymes for indecision

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Browse Nearby Words

indecipherable
indecision
indecisive
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Cite this Entry

“Indecision.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indecision. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

indecision

noun
in·​de·​ci·​sion ˌin-di-ˈsizh-ən How to pronounce indecision (audio)
: slowness or trouble in making up one's mind

More from Merriam-Webster on indecision

Nglish: Translation of indecision for Spanish Speakers

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