was in two minds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was in two minds" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express indecision or uncertainty about a particular choice or situation. Example: "When it came to choosing a career path, she was in two minds about whether to pursue medicine or art."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Stephane was in two minds.

The Guardian

"I was in two minds," he says.

The Guardian - Sport

The keeper was in two minds.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's fair to say I was in two minds.

The Guardian

I was in two minds about falling in".

The Guardian

I was in two minds about entering Red Bear for the Royal Academy summer exhibition.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

American policymakers were in two minds.

The Economist

I'm in two minds about this.

Independent

Kate is in two minds.

The Guardian - Arts

Personally, I'm in two minds.

The Guardian - Film

He seems to be in two minds.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was in two minds", ensure the context clearly indicates what the conflicting options or considerations are. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "was in two minds" when the situation involves more than two clear options or perspectives. This idiom specifically refers to a conflict between two distinct choices or feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was in two minds" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating a state of indecision or ambivalence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a common way to express uncertainty between two options, evident in various examples provided.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was in two minds" is a common and grammatically sound idiom used to express indecision or ambivalence. As Ludwig AI validates, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. Alternative phrases such as "was undecided" or "felt torn" can be used to convey similar meanings. When using this phrase, ensure that the conflicting options are clearly defined to avoid any ambiguity, and be mindful that this idiom specifically addresses a conflict between two choices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was of two minds

A slight variation on the original idiom with the same meaning.

was ambivalent

Replaces the idiom with a single adjective describing mixed feelings.

was undecided

Focuses on the state of not having made a decision yet.

felt torn

Emphasizes the conflicting emotions or desires.

was wavering

Highlights the fluctuating nature of the decision-making process.

had mixed feelings

Directly states the presence of positive and negative emotions.

remained uncertain

Stresses the lack of certainty about the decision.

couldn't decide

A more direct and simpler way of expressing the inability to choose.

hesitated

Highlights the pause or delay in making a decision.

dwelt in uncertainty

Emphasizes a prolonged state of doubt and lack of resolution.

FAQs

What does "was in two minds" mean?

The phrase "was in two minds" means being uncertain or undecided about something, typically when torn between two options or opinions.

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

You can use it to describe someone's indecision, such as: "She "was in two minds" about accepting the job offer."

What can I say instead of "was in two minds"?

Alternatives include "was undecided", "felt torn", or "was ambivalent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "was in two minds" or "was of two minds"?

Both "was in two minds" and "was of two minds" are correct and have the same meaning. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations.