irrisoluta

Irrisoluta is the feminine singular form of the Italian adjective irrisoluto, used to describe a person, decision, or situation that lacks decisiveness or a clear resolution. Italian adjectives agree with the noun they modify, so irrisoluta accompanies feminine singular nouns (for example, una scelta irrisoluta or una protagonista irrisoluta). The masculine forms are irrisoluto (singular) and irrisoluti (plural); the feminine plural is irrisolute.

Etymology and nuance: The term derives from resoluto with the negative prefix ir-, from Latin resolutus, meaning “unresolved” or “not decided.” It conveys ongoing hesitation or ambiguity rather than a single moment of doubt and is common in literary, critical, or analytical writing.

Usage and translations: In English, irrisoluta is usually rendered as indecisive, irresolute, or unresolved, depending on context. Examples: “una scelta irrisoluta” → “an indecisive/unresolved choice”; “una protagonista irrisoluta” → “an irresolute heroine.” The word is less common in everyday speech and chiefly appears in writing that seeks to emphasize ambiguity or a lack of closure.