The first two characters, 犹豫 (yóuyù), form a standalone word meaning “to hesitate.” Adding 不决 (bù jué), “not decide,” intensifies this meaning, creating a four-character idiom that paints a vivid picture of someone who hesitates and simply cannot make a decision.
In Chinese culture, particularly in contexts of leadership, business, or family responsibility, decisiveness (果断 - guǒduàn) is often highly valued. Being 犹豫不决 can be perceived as a sign of weakness, inexperience, or an inability to lead effectively. This contrasts with some Western perspectives where a prolonged decision-making process might be praised as being “thorough,” “analytical,” or “cautious.” While careful consideration is also valued in China, 犹豫不决 specifically captures the negative outcome of that process: getting stuck. It implies that the person has had enough time and information but is still paralyzed by indecision. Therefore, describing someone as 犹豫不决 is often a mild criticism, suggesting they lack the necessary firmness or courage to move forward.
This idiom is common in both spoken and written Chinese and is understood by everyone.