What does irresolute mean?
Irresolute describes someone who cannot settle on a decision or maintain a firm course of action. The word is especially useful for discussing hesitation, indecision, and the failure to commit when a choice requires courage or judgment. It can characterize a person, a body such as a committee, or an action: an irresolute leader may delay a decision, while an irresolute response suggests uncertainty rather than firm agreement. In formal writing, the term conveys a sustained or conspicuous lack of resolve rather than the brief hesitation involved in ordinary deliberation. Its meaning is distinct from being merely cautious, since an irresolute person or institution fails to reach or maintain a decision even after the point at which commitment seems necessary. The word is commonly used in political, legal, and organizational contexts, where indecision can have practical consequences.
adjectiveUnable to make a decision or choose a definite course of action. Characterized by hesitation, uncertainty, or wavering commitment.
- Unable to make a decision or choose a definite course of action.
- Hesitant or wavering in commitment, intention, or action.
"After hours of deliberation, the committee remained irresolute and postponed the decision once again."
"The mayor was accused of being irresolute in the face of mounting criticism."
"For a moment, the negotiator sounded irresolute, but she ultimately presented a clear proposal."
When a decision is irresolute, even the simplest choice can take on the scale of a summit negotiations.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of irresolute
Irresolute was formed in English from the negative prefix in- and resolute, meaning settled, determined, or free from doubt. Both elements reflect the Latin root solvere, “to loosen, solve, or settle,” which also underlies resolve, resolution, and absolute. The development of irresolute in English follows the older positive sense of resolute, preserving the idea of being “not resolved” or “not firmly determined.”
Related word forms
How irresolute is actually used
Formal in register. It describes indecision or lack of resolve, especially in a person's character, conduct, or response to a difficult choice.
Easily confused with irresolute
Resolute means firmly determined and able to make a decision, whereas irresolute means hesitant or unable to choose a course of action.