What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
undetermined
Example
The cause of the fire is still undetermined. [undetermined: adjective]
Example
She remained undetermined about which college to attend. [undetermined: adjective]
unidentified
Example
The police found an unidentified object in the park. [unidentified: adjective]
Example
The victim's body was left unidentified for several days. [unidentified: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unidentified is more commonly used than undetermined in everyday language. Unidentified is often used in news reports, crime stories, and other contexts where the identity of something or someone is unknown. Undetermined is less common and is typically used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between undetermined and unidentified?
Undetermined is generally considered more formal than unidentified. It is often used in legal, scientific, or academic contexts. Unidentified, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.