noncommittal
UK: ˌnɒnkəˈmɪtl | US: ˌnɑːnkəˈmɪtl
adj. not expressing or revealing commitment to a definite opinion or course of action
adj. deliberately vague or evasive
noncommittal = non<not> + commit<pledge> + al<adjective suffix>
- non (from Latin non): A prefix meaning "not," used to negate the following morpheme.
- commit (from Latin committere, "to entrust or pledge"): The root implies dedication or obligation.
- al (Latin-derived suffix): Forms adjectives meaning "pertaining to" or "characterized by."
Etymology Origin:
The word noncommittal emerged in the early 19th century, combining non- (negation) with commit (to bind or pledge) and -al (adjective-forming suffix). It originally described someone unwilling to pledge allegiance or take a side, reflecting a neutral or evasive stance. Over time, it broadened to describe any deliberately ambiguous behavior or language.
Her noncommittal response left us unsure of her true opinion.
The politician gave a noncommittal answer to avoid controversy.
He remained noncommittal about joining the project until the details were clear.
The manager's noncommittal attitude frustrated the team.
A noncommittal shrug was his only reaction to the proposal.