INDECISIVE

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does indecisive mean? 

• INDECISIVE (adjective)
  The adjective INDECISIVE has 3 senses:

1. characterized by lack of decision and firmness

2. not definitely settling something

3. not clearly defined

  Familiarity information: INDECISIVE used as an adjective is uncommon.

 Dictionary entry details 

• INDECISIVE (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Characterized by lack of decision and firmness

Context example:

an indecisive manager brought the enterprise to a standstill

Similar:

on the fence; undecided (characterized by indecision)

hesitant; hesitating (lacking decisiveness of character; unable to act or decide quickly or firmly)

suspensive (undecided or characterized by indecisiveness)

Also:

irresolute (uncertain how to act or proceed)

Antonym:

decisive (characterized by decision and firmness)

Derivation:

indecisiveness (the trait of irresolution; a lack of firmness of character or purpose)

indecisiveness (doubt concerning two or more possible alternatives or courses of action)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Not definitely settling something

Context example:

a long and indecisive war

Also:

inconclusive (not conclusive; not putting an end to doubt or question)

irresolute (uncertain how to act or proceed)

Antonym:

decisive (determining or having the power to determine an outcome)

Sense 3

Meaning:

Not clearly defined

Context example:

indecisive boundaries running through mountains

Similar:

indefinite (vague or not clearly defined or stated)

 Context examples 

You will be glad that Mercury is now perky again, for last month, you may have dealt with delays, computer problems, missing information, miscommunications, and indecisive VIPs.

(AstrologyZone.com, by Susan Miller)

It is the worst evil of too yielding and indecisive a character, that no influence over it can be depended on.

(Persuasion, by Jane Austen)