English Reference
adjective

scattered

adj.
US /ˈskætɝd/ UK /skˈætəd/ scat·tered

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    spread out over a large area or in many different places.

    dispersed or distributed over a wide area; not concentrated in a single location.

    Simple

    There were a few scattered houses along the coast, but no real towns.

    In context

    The survey found scattered remnants of the ancient settlement across the valley, suggesting a much larger population than previously estimated.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    happening in only a few places or at different times.

    occurring at irregular intervals or in various separate locations, particularly regarding meteorological phenomena.

    Simple

    The forecast for tomorrow includes scattered showers in the afternoon.

    In context

    Meteorologists predicted scattered thunderstorms throughout the region, though most areas remained dry for the duration of the event.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Informal

    unable to think clearly or focus because you are doing too many things.

    lacking focus or mental organisation; preoccupied with disparate tasks or thoughts.

    Simple

    I feel a bit scattered today because I have so many different projects to finish.

    In context

    Her presentation felt scattered, jumping between unrelated data points without providing a cohesive narrative for the board members.

Usage scattered light

Officials continued to battle scattered blazes there late on Sunday, while the second fire which began in the eastern town of Selinia was said to have "no active front".

BBC News· 16 Aug 2026

While helicopters scattered miniature red roses over the crowd, priests in white robes celebrated mass and the Mazowsze folk ensemble sang and danced to traditional Polish music.

The Guardian· 16 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated