Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person who responds 'I don't know' in a survey or poll: A "don't-know" is an individual who, when asked a question (especially in a public opinion poll), gives the answer "I don't know" or expresses no opinion. This term categorizes respondents who are undecided, uncertain, or neutral.

Usage

• The term is used primarily in the context of polling, surveys, and statistical analysis to classify respondents.
• It is often used in its plural form ("don't-knows") to refer to the group of such people collectively.
• It functions as a countable noun.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The poll results showed 70% in favor, 13% opposed, and 17% don't-knows.
  • Political analysts are studying the don't-knows to understand their potential voting behavior.
  • A significant number of don't-knows in the survey made the outcome difficult to predict.

Advanced Usage

• "The don't-know factor": Refers to the influence or significance of undecided respondents in determining the final outcome of a poll or election.
  • The election is too close to call due to the large don't-know factor.

Variants and Related Words

• Undecided (noun/adjective): A person who has not yet made a decision or formed an opinion. (This is a more common synonym in general contexts.)
• Fence-sitter (noun, informal): A person who remains neutral or undecided in a dispute or contest.

Synonyms

• Uncommitted voter: A person who has not decided who to vote for.
• Neutral: A person who does not support or favor either side in a conflict or debate.
• Swing voter: A voter who has no allegiance to any political party and whose vote is unpredictable. (Note: This implies potential to choose either side, whereas a "don't-know" may genuinely have no opinion.)

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically originates from and is most commonly used in the jargon of polling and market research.
• It categorizes a response, not necessarily a permanent state of mind. A "don't-know" in one poll might form an opinion later.

Noun

1. a person who responds `I don't know' in a public opinion poll
   • 70% in favor, 13% opposed and 17% don't-knows