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REFERENCE

indefinitely

adv. time
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɪnˈdɛfənətɫi// UK //ɪndˈɛfɪnətli// in·def·i·nite·ly

adv. for a period of time that has no fixed end date. You use this when you don't know or won't say exactly when something will stop.

adv. for an unlimited or unspecified period of time. Often used to describe the suspension of activities or the extension of a status where no terminal date has been established.


SIMPLE

The local library is closed indefinitely for repairs.

CONTEXTUAL

The trial has been postponed indefinitely while the lawyers wait for new evidence to be processed.

COMPLEX

Although the contract was originally intended to last for three years, the board voted to extend the partnership indefinitely to ensure long-term stability for the project.

Origin

From indefinite + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed at the end of a clause or after the verb it modifies.

Pitfall

The meeting was indefinitely postponed.The meeting was postponed indefinitely.While both are grammatically possible, placing this specific adverb at the end of the clause is the standard pattern in natural English.

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