Words / C1

ind-i-TURM-in-uh-t/ˌɪndɪˈtɜːmɪnət/

Indeterminate means not exactly known, fixed, or decided: an indeterminate period, an indeterminate n. Determine (already in the dictionary) is the verb; “TBC” on a rota is still a cover hole.

Meaning

Not exactly known, fixed, or decided.

Examples

• “An indeterminate n is still an empty cell; “about two hundred” is not a count.”
• “An indeterminate spare on the rota is a cover hole, not “TBC as a vibe”.”
• “Unspecified is the close twin. Vague is everyday. TBC is a holding mark. A name is cover. Write the name, or close the sitting; do not staff the night with a mood.”

Good to know

Not exactly known or fixed. Verb: determine (already in the dictionary). TBC ≠ a named spare.

Near in meaning

unspecified, undefined

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