Irresolute
mediumNegative toneih-REZ-uh-loot
adjective
Definition
unable to decide; hesitant and wavering
Memory hook
IRRESOLUTE: 'is he resolute?' No, IR-resolute means NOT resolute. Picture a soldier who can't even decide which boot to put on, frozen mid-step forever.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Standing at the crossroads, he remained irresolute, changing his mind with every passing minute.”
“Her irresolute leadership frustrated the board, which wanted swift, confident decisions.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Standing at the crossroads, he remained ______, changing his mind with every passing minute.”
Show answer
irresolute
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Irresolute is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "indecisive" or "wavering" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "resolute".
Related GRE Words
boorish
rude, ill-mannered, and insensitive
docile
Easily taught, submissive, and obedient
artless
free of guile or pretense; naturally simple and sincere
compliant
inclined to agree with others or obey rules; submissive
officious
intrusively eager to offer unwanted help or advice; meddlesome
tentative
Not certain or fixed; provisional; hesitant or uncertain
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