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Indecisively Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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indecisively

[หŒษชndษชหˆsaษชsษชvli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a hesitant or uncertain manner

Indecisively is an adverb that describes the action of being hesitant or uncertain in making a decision or choice. It implies a lack of firmness or decisiveness in one's actions.

Synonyms

hesitantly, uncertainly, waveringly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indecisively

When someone cannot make up their mind and keeps going back and forth between choices.

  • She walked around the store indecisively, unsure of which dress to buy
hesitantly

When someone is unsure or nervous about doing something and shows it in their actions or speech.

  • He reached out for her hand hesitantly, afraid she might pull away
uncertainly

When someone acts without confidence or surety about the outcome of their actions.

  • The student answered the teacher's question uncertainly, not sure if he was correct
waveringly

When someone is constantly changing their mind or position, showing lack of strong conviction or decisiveness.

  • She spoke waveringly about her plans for the future, not committing to any single idea

Examples of usage

  • She looked at the menu indecisively, unable to choose between the pasta and the salad.
  • He spoke indecisively, his voice wavering as he struggled to make a decision.
  • The team acted indecisively, resulting in missed opportunities and delays.
  • They moved indecisively through the maze, unsure of which path to take.
  • I could see her indecisively flipping through the pages of the book, unable to focus on a single paragraph.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research indicates that people can experience 'analysis paralysis' when faced with too many options, leading to indecisiveness.
  • Studies show indecisiveness can be linked to anxiety, where fear of making the wrong choice prevents a decision.
  • Cognitive dissonance arises when an individual struggles between conflicting beliefs, contributing to indecisiveness.

Pop Culture

  • In films, characters who are indecisive often serve as comic relief or represent relatable human struggles.
  • Songs about uncertainty in love, like 'Maybe' by The Chantels, tap into the theme of indecisiveness.
  • Television shows frequently depict indecisive characters, creating relatable scenarios that resonate with viewers.

Literature

  • Famous literary characters often embody indecisiveness, such as Hamlet, who struggles with action versus inaction.
  • In classic novels, indecisiveness can symbolize internal conflict, highlighting psychological depth and character growth.
  • Modern fiction often portrays indecisiveness as a hurdle for protagonists, adding to their development and story arc.

Everyday Life

  • Indecisiveness can manifest in various situations, like choosing what to wear or what to eat, affecting daily life.
  • It can impact relationships, with individuals who struggle to make choices sometimes frustrating friends or partners.
  • Developing strategies like making lists or setting time limits can help individuals overcome indecisiveness.

Origin of 'indecisively'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'indecisivus,' combining 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'decisus,' meaning 'decided.'
  • It first appeared in English in the late 19th century, describing a lack of firm decision-making.
  • Related words include 'decide' and 'decision,' showing a linguistic connection to making choices.

The word 'indecisively' is derived from the root word 'indecisive', which originated in the early 18th century. The prefix 'in-' means 'not', and 'decisive' comes from the Latin word 'decisivus', meaning 'cutting off'. The concept of indecisiveness has been a part of human nature for centuries, as people grapple with making choices and decisions. Indecisiveness can stem from a variety of factors, such as fear of making the wrong choice, lack of confidence, or simply being overwhelmed by options.

See also: indecisiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,851, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.