in two minds

USAGE SUMMARY

"in two minds" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe someone who is unsure or undecided about something. For example: "She was in two minds about whether or not to accept the job offer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

American policymakers were in two minds.

The Economist

I'm in two minds about this.

Independent

Stephane was in two minds.

The Guardian

I'm still in two minds.

The Guardian - Arts

Personally, I'm in two minds.

The Guardian - Film

Kate is in two minds.

The Guardian - Arts

In two minds about antisemitism?

The Guardian - Music

In Two Minds: Dual Processes and Beyond.

Nature

"I'm in two minds about today's game.

The Guardian - Sport

He seems to be in two minds.

The Guardian - Film

Even that though… I'm in two minds".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in two minds" when you want to convey a sense of genuine internal conflict or indecision, rather than simple lack of information. It implies a struggle between competing desires or perspectives.

Common error

Avoid using "in two minds" when you simply need more information to make a decision. This phrase suggests a deeper internal conflict, not just a lack of data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in two minds" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a subject to indicate a state of indecision or internal conflict. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in two minds" is a common and grammatically sound way to express indecision or internal conflict, as validated by Ludwig. Predominantly used in news and media, it conveys a state of ambivalence where one is torn between different options. Alternative phrases like "undecided" or "of two minds" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. When using this phrase, ensure that it reflects a genuine internal conflict rather than just a lack of information. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is indeed correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

of two minds

A more formal and literary alternative to "in two minds".

unsure

Directly states a lack of certainty.

undecided

Single word expressing the state of not having made a decision.

torn between options

Highlights the conflict between different choices.

unable to decide

Directly states the inability to reach a conclusion.

wavering

Suggests a back-and-forth movement between options.

hesitant

Implies a pause or reluctance before making a decision.

undecided and conflicted

Emphasizes both the lack of decision and the internal struggle.

doubtful

Expresses skepticism or lack of conviction.

sitting on the fence

Suggests neutrality and avoidance of taking a side.

FAQs

How can I use "in two minds" in a sentence?

You can use "in two minds" to describe a state of being undecided or conflicted. For example: "I'm "in two minds" about whether to accept the new job offer."

What's a simpler way to say "in two minds"?

A simpler alternative is "undecided". It conveys the same meaning of not having made a decision, but without the imagery of internal conflict.

Is it correct to say "of two minds" instead of "in two minds"?

Yes, "of two minds" is a perfectly acceptable alternative. It's semantically very similar to "in two minds" and often used in more formal contexts.

What's the difference between "in two minds" and "uncertain"?

"In two minds" specifically refers to a conflict between two options or desires, whereas "uncertain" is a more general term for lacking confidence or knowledge about something.