Meaning
Indefinite means not clear, fixed, or limited in meaning, time, or amount. It describes something that is uncertain, not specific, or without a clear end.
Grammar and Usage
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Part of speech: Adjective
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Used to describe nouns that are vague or not clearly defined.
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Common structures:
- an indefinite period/time (not clearly limited)
- an indefinite answer (not clearly defined or certain)
- an indefinite number of people (not specific)
Derived forms:
- indefinitely (adverb): without a fixed limit of time or extent.
Common Phrases
- for an indefinite period — for an unknown or unlimited time.
- remain indefinite — to stay uncertain or unclear.
- an indefinite plan — a plan that is not clearly decided or fixed.
Collocations
- indefinite period
- indefinite leave
- indefinite suspension
- indefinite number
- indefinite article (in grammar: a, an)
Examples
- The project has been postponed for an indefinite period.
- She gave an indefinite answer when asked about her future plans.
- The meeting was indefinitely delayed due to technical issues.
- He has taken indefinite leave from work for personal reasons.
- The term “some” refers to an indefinite quantity.
- Our travel date is still indefinite because we’re waiting for visa approval.
- The government announced an indefinite suspension of the program.
- They decided to live abroad indefinitely.
Synonyms or Related
- uncertain
- vague
- unclear
- indeterminate
- unspecified
Antonym
- definite
- clear
- specific
- fixed