What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
blurred
Example
The photograph came out blurred because the camera was shaking. [blurred: adjective]
Example
Her memory of the event was blurred, and she couldn't recall all the details. [blurred: past participle]
indistinct
Example
The outline of the mountain was indistinct against the foggy sky. [indistinct: adjective]
Example
The voices in the distance were indistinct, and I couldn't make out what they were saying. [indistinct: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Blurred is more commonly used than indistinct in everyday language, especially when referring to visual images or memories. Indistinct is less common but can be used in a broader range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between blurred and indistinct?
Both blurred and indistinct are relatively neutral in terms of formality. They can be used in both formal and informal contexts without sounding overly casual or formal.
