What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unintelligible
Example
The audio recording was unintelligible due to the poor quality of the microphone. [unintelligible: adjective]
Example
The speaker's accent made his words unintelligible to the audience. [unintelligible: adjective]
indistinct
Example
The outline of the object was indistinct in the fog. [indistinct: adjective]
Example
The singer's voice was indistinct due to the loud music. [indistinct: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Indistinct is more commonly used than unintelligible in everyday language. Indistinct is versatile and can be used to describe various sensory experiences, while unintelligible is more specific and often used in technical or academic contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between unintelligible and indistinct?
Both unintelligible and indistinct are formal words, but unintelligible is more technical and specific, while indistinct is more general and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
