Indecision: meaning, definitions and examples

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indecision

[ˌɪndɪˈsɪʒən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

lack of decision

Indecision is the inability to make a decision quickly or easily. It can stem from a variety of factors such as fear of making the wrong choice, lack of information, or conflicting desires. Indecision often leads to feelings of frustration and stress.

Synonyms

doubt, hesitation, uncertainty, vacillation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
indecision	Use when someone is unable to make a decision quickly, often implying a sense of mental struggle or inner conflict. Her indecision cost her the opportunity to go on the trip
hesitation	Use when someone pauses before doing or saying something, often due to uncertainty or fear. There was a moment of hesitation before she accepted the offer
uncertainty	Use when referring to a situation where the outcome or a specific detail is unknown or unclear. The uncertainty of the weather made planning the picnic difficult
doubt	Use when someone is unsure about something, often questioning its truth or reliability. This can refer to both external situations and internal beliefs. He had serious doubts about the success of the project
vacillation	Use when someone repeatedly changes their mind or can't settle on a single course of action. This word often has a negative connotation, suggesting weakness or instability. His vacillation over the issue frustrated his colleagues to no end

Examples of usage

Her indecision about which college to attend caused her a lot of anxiety.
I hate his indecision, he can never make up his mind.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

indecision as a character trait

Indecision can also refer to a person's habitual tendency to be indecisive in various aspects of life. It may be a personality trait that affects decision-making in general, leading to a reputation for being wishy-washy or unreliable.

Synonyms

inconstancy, indecisiveness, timidity, wavering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
indecision	Appropriate when someone is unable to make a decision. It generally refers to situations where a person is completely stuck between two or more choices. She stared at the menu with indecision, unsure of what to order
indecisiveness	Used to describe a general characteristic of frequently being unable to make decisions. This term is more about an ongoing trait rather than a single moment of hesitation. Her indecisiveness drove everyone crazy when trying to plan a group trip
timidity	Refers to a lack of courage or confidence, usually making it difficult for someone to act or make decisions. Often used in contexts where fear or shyness plays a role. His timidity prevented him from speaking up in meetings
wavering	Suggests a situation where someone is hesitating or fluctuating between options, but might lean towards one choice before reconsidering. It implies some level of doubt or lack of firmness. After wavering for hours, she finally decided to take the job offer
inconstancy	Often used to describe someone or something that changes frequently and lacks stability. It can relate to emotions, loyalty, or opinions and has a somewhat negative connotation. His inconstancy in relationships made it difficult for his partners to trust him

Examples of usage

His indecision in relationships often resulted in misunderstandings.
She was known for her indecision at work, always seeking others' opinions before taking action.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'indecisus,' meaning 'not decided,' which shows its roots in the idea of uncertainty.
It has been part of the English language since the early 17th century, highlighting long-standing human struggles with choices.

Psychology

Indecision can be influenced by fear of making the wrong choice, which often leads to anxiety and stress.
Studies show that too many choices can lead to paralysis, where a person feels overwhelmed and struggles to decide.
Decision fatigue is a phenomenon where the quality of decisions deteriorates after making many choices in a row.

Pop Culture

In movies, characters often represent indecision dramatically, showcasing internal struggles, like in romantic comedies where someone can't choose between two partners.
Many songs explore themes of indecision, reflecting feelings of uncertainty in love and life.

Literature

Classic literature often portrays heroes facing indecision as a means to develop character depth, like Hamlet’s famous procrastination in deciding to avenge his father.
Modern novels frequently use indecision as a plot device to create tension and drive the narrative forward.

Science

Research in neuroscience shows that the brain areas activated during decision-making can differ significantly when faced with more than one appealing option.
Cognitive studies indicate that people are generally happier with decisions made quickly, highlighting the benefits of reducing indecision.

Translations

Translations of the word "indecision" in other languages:

🇵🇹 indecisão

🇮🇳 द्विविधा

🇩🇪 Unentschlossenheit

🇮🇩 keragu-raguan

🇺🇦 нерішучість

🇵🇱 niezdecydowanie

🇯🇵 優柔不断 (yūjūfudan)

🇫🇷 indécision

🇪🇸 indecisión

🇹🇷 kararsızlık

🇰🇷 우유부단 (uyubudan)

🇸🇦 تردد (taraddud)

🇨🇿 nerozhodnost

🇸🇰 nerozhodnosť

🇨🇳 犹豫不决 (yóuyù bù jué)

🇸🇮 neodločnost

🇮🇸 óákveðni

🇰🇿 екіойлау

🇬🇪 გადაწყვეტილებას არ აქვს (gadats'q'vetilebas ar akvs)

🇦🇿 qərarsızlıq

🇲🇽 indecisión

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,397, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
19394 grenades
19395 recalcitrant
19396 prune
19397 indecision
19398 resurrected
19399 froth
19400 inexperience
...