shilly-shally

UK: ˈʃɪliˌʃæli | US: ˈʃɪliˌʃæli

Definition

  1. vi. to hesitate or be indecisive

  2. n. indecision or vacillation

Structure
shilly <reduplication of "shall I">shally <reduplication of "shall I">
Etymology

"Shilly-shally" is a playful reduplication of the hesitant phrase "shall I?" in Early Modern English. The doubling intensifies the sense of wavering, mimicking the back-and-forth of indecisive thought. Originally spelled "shill I, shall I," it evolved into its current form by the 18th century, embodying the very hesitation it describes.

Examples

  1. Stop shilly-shallying and make a decision!

  2. His shilly-shally attitude annoyed the team.

  3. The politician’s shilly-shally response lost public trust.

  4. Don’t shilly-shally—time is running out.

  5. Her shilly-shally over the menu held up the entire table.