Words / B2

in-DEF-in-uh-t/ɪnˈdefɪnət/

Indefinite means not fixed, or with no set end: an indefinite walkout; an indefinite article (grammar: a/an). Definite is an opposite. The walkout was indefinite. Grammar: the indefinite article. Do not use it for “I have not decided my argument yet” in a vague way.

Meaning

Not clear or fixed, or with no set end date.

Examples

• “The walkout was indefinite until the pay offer was published.”
• “Use the indefinite article before a singular countable, which is the grammar sense.”

Good to know

an indefinite strike / delay / period; the indefinite article. Opposite: definite. Unions, visas, and grammar. No fixed end — not merely vague prose.

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