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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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can't decide

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

We can't decide.

News & Media

The New Yorker

Still can't decide?

News & Media

The New York Times

I can't decide.

News & Media

The New York Times

I can't decide.

I can't decide now".

Andrew can't decide.

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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Can't decide what to buy?

News & Media

The New York Times

Can't decide among the 40-plus flavors?

Can't decide what happens after the plot?

News & Media

The New Yorker

Can't decide?

News & Media

Forbes

Can't decide which gem is your favorite?

News & Media

Forbes
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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing indecision, provide context to clarify the options you're struggling with. This makes your communication more helpful and informative.

Common error

While common, relying too heavily on "can't decide" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "undecided" or "torn between options" to add nuance.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

87%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can't decide" functions as a statement of inability or difficulty in making a choice. As Ludwig AI indicates, this expression is commonly used across various contexts to convey indecision. It often serves as a preface to further explanation or justification for the lack of a decision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

11%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can't decide" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to convey indecision or difficulty in making a choice. Ludwig's analysis shows that it appears frequently across various contexts, particularly in news and media sources. While versatile, varying your language with synonyms like "undecided" or "torn between options" can enhance your writing. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase serves the purpose of expressing uncertainty and signaling a need for more information or assistance. The phrase maintains a generally neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

FAQs

What does "can't decide" mean?

The phrase "can't decide" means you are unable to make a choice between two or more options. It expresses a state of indecision.

What can I say instead of "can't decide"?

You can use alternatives like "unable to determine", "undecided", or "torn between options" to express a similar meaning.

How to use "can't decide" in a sentence?

You can use "can't decide" in a sentence to express your inability to choose. For example, "I can't decide what to wear today" or "We can't decide where to go for dinner".

Is it correct to say "I can't decide"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted to say "I can't decide". It's a common and natural way to express indecision in English.

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Source & Trust

87%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: