irrisoluto

Irrisoluto is an Italian adjective meaning indecisive or not resolute. It describes a person, action, or attitude marked by hesitation and a lack of firm commitment. The term often conveys a sense of wavering or reluctance to make a definite choice, rather than mere doubt.

Etymology and nuance. The word is formed from risoluto, meaning resolute, with the negating prefix ir-, a standard Italian negation before r. The sense conveyed by irrisoluto emphasizes ongoing irresolution and inner conflict, rather than a single uncertain moment.

Usage. In literature and criticism, irrisoluto can describe a character’s stance, a dilemma, or an approach that avoids commitment. It may appear in discussions of political strategy, artistic decisions, or personal mood. English translations include irresolute or indecisive; common synonyms in Italian include incerto, esitante, and indeciso, while antonyms include risoluto, deciso, and fermo. Example: La sua risposta fu irrisoluta, senza una chiara direzione. See also: risoluto, indeciso.