Definition

The condition of being in a state of waiting or being undecided, often related to a legal case or situation that is not yet resolved.

Example

The case is still in pendency, so we cannot make any decisions yet.

Conversation

I heard there’s a pendency on the project we’re working on.

Really? I thought everything was moving along smoothly.

Yeah, it seems like there’s some sort of delay or issue.

That makes sense; I guess we’ll have to wait for updates.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pendency is formed from "pendere" (meaning to hang) and the suffix "-cy" (indicating a state or condition). The word refers to the state of being undecided or awaiting a conclusion, as if something is hanging in the balance.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'hanging' ('pendere') in a state of uncertainty — that's what pendency means.

Visually Confused Words