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REFERENCE

scattered

adj.
US //ˈskætɝd// UK //skˈætəd// scat·tered
  1. 1 spread out spatially (adj.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

    The survey found scattered remnants of the ancient settlement across the valley, suggesting a much larger population than previously estimated.
  2. 2 weather/showers (adj.)
    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.

    Example

    The forecast for tomorrow includes scattered showers in the afternoon.

    Example

    Meteorologists predicted scattered thunderstorms throughout the region, though most areas remained dry for the duration of the event.
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  1. 3 distracted or disorganized (adj.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

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

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