ENGLISH
REFERENCE

indefinite

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɪnˈdɛfənət// UK //ɪndˈɛfɪnət// in·def·i·nite

adj. not having a fixed limit or a clear end date. You use this to describe something that is vague or could go on for a long time.

adj. lacking precise limits or a fixed duration. Often describes periods of time or quantities that are not clearly defined or specified.


SIMPLE

The workers went on an indefinite strike.

CONTEXTUAL

The project has been put on hold for an indefinite period while the board reviews the budget.

COMPLEX

The treaty was extended for an indefinite duration, reflecting the signatories' commitment to a long-term peace process without the pressure of a looming expiration date.

Antonyms
Origin

From Late Latin indēfīnītus. Morphologically in- + definite.

Usage

Commonly modifies nouns related to time, such as 'period', 'delay', or 'absence'.

Pitfall

an indefinite amount of peoplean indefinite number of peopleUse 'number' for countable things like people; 'amount' is for uncountable masses.

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