indefinite

IPA

Dictionary definition of indefinite

Lacking a specific or precise limit, duration, or definition.
"They embarked on an indefinite journey, uncertain of their destination."

Detailed meaning of indefinite

It implies an absence of clarity, certainty, or exactness. When used to describe time, it suggests an unspecified or undetermined period, without a fixed start or end. In terms of quantity or extent, indefinite indicates an imprecise or unknown amount, lacking a precise measurement or boundary. It can also describe a situation or concept that is vague, ambiguous, or open-ended, without clear parameters or boundaries. The adjective "indefinite" often conveys a sense of uncertainty, incompleteness, or lack of specific details, leaving room for interpretation or further specification.

Example sentences containing indefinite

1. The meeting has been postponed indefinitely due to scheduling conflicts.
2. She had an indefinite feeling of unease, unable to pinpoint its source.
3. The artist's style defied categorization, falling into an indefinite realm of abstraction.
4. He had an indefinite number of books in his personal library, constantly expanding it.
5. The project's timeline remains indefinite until further notice.
6. The rain continued with indefinite persistence, refusing to let up.

History and etymology of indefinite

The adjective 'indefinite' has its roots in Latin, starting with the prefix 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'definitus,' the past participle of 'definire.' 'Definire' is a combination of 'de,' indicating 'down from' or 'away,' and 'finire,' meaning 'to limit' or 'to set bounds.' Therefore, the etymology of 'indefinite' conveys the idea of lacking a specific or precise limit, duration, or definition. It signifies a state of ambiguity or absence of a clear and definite boundary or definition, emphasizing the absence of a fixed or determined quality. This term is commonly used to describe something that is open-ended, vague, or without a determined endpoint or scope.

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Further usage examples of indefinite

1. The company provided its employees with indefinite work-from-home options.
2. The answer to the riddle remained indefinite, leaving everyone puzzled.
3. He made an indefinite promise to be there for her whenever she needed support.
4. The decision was left in an indefinite state until all the facts were gathered.
5. The road ahead stretched into an indefinite distance, disappearing into the horizon.
6. The outcome of the experiment remains indefinite despite repeated trials.
7. Her plans for the future are still indefinite and subject to change.
8. The weather forecast predicts an indefinite period of rain.
9. The artist's abstract paintings often evoke an indefinite sense of emotion.
10. He struggled to give an indefinite answer to the complex question.
11. The boundaries of their friendship seemed indefinite at times.
12. The meeting's agenda was left indefinite until further notice.
13. The path through the dense forest appeared indefinite and unmarked.
14. The novel's ambiguous ending left readers in an indefinite state of suspense.
15. The concept of time travel raises questions about indefinite possibilities.
16. The student's knowledge of the topic was quite indefinite.
17. The future of the project remains indefinite due to budget constraints.
18. Her enthusiasm for the project was indefinite, waning as time passed.
19. The deadline for the assignment was left indefinite by the professor.
20. They enjoyed exploring the indefinite beauty of the wilderness.
21. The negotiations reached an indefinite stalemate.
22. The effects of the new policy were largely indefinite.
23. Their relationship had an indefinite quality, always evolving.
24. The music had an indefinite quality that resonated with listeners.
25. The concept of beauty is often indefinite and varies from person to person.