Noncommitment

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The quality of refraining from making binding choices or promises in various situations
2. The state of not deciding or pledging oneself in matters that require commitment
3. The condition of avoiding definite choices or promises when faced with obligations

Etymology: "Noncommitment" is built from the prefix "non-", meaning "not", attached to "commitment," a noun from the verb "commit," which comes from Latin "committere," literally "to bring together" or "to join, entrust." Commitment, in the sense of a binding pledge or obligation, developed from that core idea of entrusting oneself or one's word to something. Putting "non-" in front simply reverses the sense: noncommitment is the state of not binding oneself to a particular course, promise, or position. Because "non-" can attach freely to English nouns, the formation is transparent, and the word reads as a plain negation of "commitment" rather than as a term with a separate history of its own.

Synonyms: indecision, uncertainty, detachment, disinterest, neutrality

Antonyms: commitment, dedication, engagement, devotion, involvement