indecisive
UK[ˌɪndɪˈsaɪsɪv]US[ˌɪndɪˈsaɪsɪv]
adj
not able to make decisions quickly and effectively
adj
not having a clear result or meaning; not settling something
Morpheme Breakdown
in
decisive
in
not
decisive
having decided
Etymology
the word 'indecisive' is a modern english formation built upon the earlier adjective 'decisive'. the prefix 'in-', derived from latin, functions as a negator, akin to 'un-'. the core component 'decisive' originates from the medieval latin 'decisivus', which itself comes from the past participle stem of the latin verb 'decidere', meaning 'to cut off, to decide'. the literal logic of the original root is one of cutting, implying a definitive separation of options. therefore, 'indecisive' literally means 'not having the quality of cutting off (alternatives)', which evolved into its modern abstract sense of being unable to reach a firm conclusion or settle on a choice.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + decisive (having decided)
in- (latin origin, a prefix meaning 'not'); decisive (from latin 'decisivus', meaning 'having the power to settle')
Examples
he was criticized for being too indecisive in a crisis.
the election results were indecisive, leading to a coalition government.
her indecisive answer left everyone uncertain about the plan.