nøling

Nøling is a noun used in Danish and Norwegian to denote hesitation or indecision, particularly a temporary reluctance to commit to a course of action or to express an opinion. It can describe a mental state, a deliberative pause, or a cautious approach in decision-making, negotiations, or public discourse. In everyday use, nøling points to a delay between considering options and taking a step.

Etymology: The term derives from the verb nøle, meaning to hesitate, and forms the noun with the common -ing suffix used to indicate an ongoing action or state. The construction is typical in Danish and Norwegian, and nøling is widely understood in both languages.

Usage: Nøling often signals a measured, cautious stance rather than outright doubt. It can imply reluctance that slows progress, but also reflects thorough consideration. In political or business contexts, nøling may refer to hesitation to approve a decision or to public expressions of uncertainty.

Examples: The committee showed nøling before approving the contract. The leader’s nøling stalled negotiations. She answered with nøling, preferring to gather more information.

See also: tvil, nøl, ambivalens, decision-making.