indecision
UK[ˌɪndɪˈsɪʒn]US[ˌɪndɪˈsɪʒn]
n
the inability to make a decision quickly; hesitation or uncertainty.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
decision
in
not
decision
act of deciding
Etymology
the word "indecision" is a modern english formation, directly constructed from classical elements. the negative latin prefix "in-" was attached to the noun "decision," which itself originates from the latin verb decidere, meaning "to cut off" or "to settle." this verb is a compound of de- ("off") and caedere ("to cut"), a vivid metaphor from proto-indo-European kae-id- ("to strike, hew") for bringing a matter to a conclusive end. therefore, "indecision" literally translates to "the state of not having cut off/settled," logically evolving into the abstract modern meaning of hesitation or the inability to reach a conclusion.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + decision (act of deciding)
- in: a latin prefix meaning "not" or "without", serving as a negative particle.
- decision: from latin decisionem (a decision, settlement), derived from decidere (to decide). in this compound, it functions as the core noun denoting the act of deciding.
Examples
his chronic indecision made it difficult to choose a restaurant for dinner.
after weeks of indecision, she finally accepted the job offer.
the committee's indecision on the policy led to further delays.