Incompletely Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”š
Add to dictionary

incompletely

[หŒษชn.kษ™mหˆpliหt.lษช ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

used to describe something that is not fully completed or finished

Not fully or completely; unfinished.

Synonyms

in part, partially, partly, unfinished.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
incompletely

This word is often used when something is not finished or done only to a certain extent. It suggests that a process or task is missing some parts or details.

  • The report was submitted incompletely and lacked crucial data
partially

This word means to do something to some extent but not completely. It is similar to 'in part' and can refer to a condition or state that is only halfway complete.

  • The building was partially destroyed in the fire
unfinished

This word has a straightforward meaning indicating that something is not complete or needs more work. It often has a negative connotation when referring to tasks or projects.

  • The sculpture remains unfinished after the artist's sudden departure
partly

Use this word when indicating that something is only to some extent true or applicable. It is similar to 'partially' but can also refer to reasons or causes.

  • She is partly responsible for the team's failure
in part

This phrase implies that something is true to a certain extent but not entirely. It can be used when something partially explains or contributes to the whole.

  • The project succeeded in part due to the team's hard work

Examples of usage

  • The project was left incompletely finished.
  • She incompletely understood the instructions given.
Context #2 | Adverb

used to describe something that is done in a partial or insufficient manner

In a way that is not complete or thorough; inadequately.

Synonyms

inadequately, insufficiently, partially.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
incompletely

When something is not finished or done in such a way that some parts are missing.

  • The project was submitted incompletely
  • He answered the questions incompletely
inadequately

When something does not meet the required standard or expectation, often implying a deficiency in quality.

  • The report was written inadequately
  • He prepared inadequately for the presentation
partially

When something is done in part, but not completely or entirely, often intentionally.

  • The house was partially painted
  • He is partially responsible for the outcome
insufficiently

When the amount or degree of something is not enough.

  • The funds were insufficiently allocated
  • She slept insufficiently last night

Examples of usage

  • She answered the question incompletely.
  • The report was incompletely researched.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that people are motivated to resolve feelings of incompleteness to achieve mental balance.
  • The feeling of incompleteness can lead to anxiety, prompting individuals to seek closure in various aspects of life.
  • Therapeutically, acknowledging feelings of incompleteness can be the first step towards healing and personal growth.

Literature

  • Many narratives use the theme of incompleteness to explore characters' journeys and personal development.
  • 'The Great Gatsby' reflects the incompletely fulfilled dreams of its characters, especially in their pursuits of wealth and love.
  • Poets often convey a sense of incompleteness as a metaphor for life's unresolved questions and emotions.

Science

  • In scientific research, having incomplete data can hinder conclusions, emphasizing the importance of thorough experimentation.
  • The notion of incompleteness is crucial in mathematical logic, especially in Gรถdel's Incompleteness Theorems, which state that not all truths can be proven in a given system.
  • Many biological processes can be classified as incomplete, such as incomplete metamorphosis in insects, where they develop through several stages.

Pop Culture

  • In films and music, themes of incompleteness often relate to unrequited love or unfinished business, common in romantic narratives.
  • Television shows sometimes leave plot lines incomplete, engaging audiences through cliffhangers and ongoing mysteries.
  • Art installations can visually represent incompleteness, encouraging viewers to reflect on what is missing or left unresolved.

Origin of 'incompletely'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the prefix 'in-', meaning 'not,' and 'complete,' which comes from the Latin 'complectere,' meaning 'to fill up.'
  • The word has evolved in use since the 15th century to describe something that is lacking or unfinished.
  • 'Incomplete' appears in various forms across languages, with many language families using similar roots to express the idea of wholeness.

The word 'incompletely' is derived from the word 'incomplete', which dates back to the late 14th century. The prefix 'in-' indicates negation or lack, while 'complete' comes from the Latin 'completus', meaning 'full'. Over time, 'incompletely' has been used to describe actions or things that are not fully done or not thorough enough.


See also: complete, completed, completely, completeness, completer, completing, completion, incomplete, uncompleted.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,718, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.