Dither

To hesitate or be indecisive about something; to waver between different courses of action. It can also refer to an electronic or signal processing technique where a small amount of random noise is added to a signal to reduce quantization error and improve the perceived quality. In a non-technical sense, 'dither' implies a state of nervous or excited activity, a trembling or quivering. This often stems from uncertainty or a conflict of desires, leading to an inability to make a definitive choice or take decisive action. The degree of dithering can vary, from a slight hesitation to a prolonged state of paralysis, reflecting the intensity of the internal conflict. Ultimately, dithering suggests a delay, a postponement of a crucial decision or action, and the anxiety that often accompanies such indecision.

Dither meaning with examples

• Sarah **dithered** over whether to accept the job offer, weighing the pros and cons of relocation against her comfort in her current city. Her friends told her to jump and her family told her to stay, so she still couldn't make up her mind. She felt it was the biggest decision of her life and it was really making her nervous.
• The politician **dithered** on the climate change bill, worried about alienating either the environmentalists or the businesses that rely on fossil fuels. He knew that he had to choose sides, but he was very worried about upsetting someone. His advisors encouraged him to make a decision but they could see it was giving him a headache.
• The project manager **dithered** about which design to choose, considering several proposals, each with unique advantages and disadvantages. The clients were really pressuring him and they needed an answer soon. This internal conflict prevented him from giving an answer or letting anyone know which way he was leaning. His team was getting a little anxious as a result.
• The nervous student **dithered** at the door of the exam room, unsure if she had adequately prepared for the test and questioning her choice of subjects. She kept wondering if she should just walk away but knew she would regret it. The exam was a major turning point and she was really nervous. She was afraid to take a chance, she couldn't commit.
• The bird watcher **dithered** over the identifying of the rare bird they had just seen, comparing its features to the images in their guidebook. Their camera captured the perfect moment but they were unsure of the correct identity and didn't want to give a misidentification. This doubt kept him from posting online to share. The bird was an enigma.