What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
indefinite
Example
I have an indefinite amount of work to do. [indefinite: adjective]
Example
The meeting has been postponed indefinitely. [indefinitely: adverb]
indeterminate
Example
The outcome of the election is still indeterminate. [indeterminate: adjective]
Example
The length of the project is indeterminate at this point. [indeterminate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Indefinite is more commonly used than indeterminate in everyday language. Indefinite is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while indeterminate is less common and tends to be used in more technical or specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between indefinite and indeterminate?
Both indefinite and indeterminate are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
