Indefinitely Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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indefinitely
[ɪnˈdɛfɪnɪtli ]
Definitions
without fixed or specified limit
for an unlimited or unspecified period of time; forever
Synonyms
endlessly, forever, permanently.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| indefinitely |
Use when something will last for an unknown period of time, with no set end date. Often implies temporary uncertainty rather than a permanent state.
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| endlessly |
Use to describe something that seems to go on without stopping, often in a figurative or hyperbolic sense.
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| permanently |
Use for something intended to last for a very long time or without change, especially in a physical or formal sense.
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| forever |
Best used when referring to something that will last for all time, without end. Often carries sentimental or dramatic connotations.
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Examples of usage
- The project has been put on hold indefinitely.
- We will wait here indefinitely for your return.
without clear or precise limits
in a way that is not clearly defined or determined
Synonyms
imprecisely, indefinably, vaguely.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| indefinitely |
Used when something is expected to last for an unknown amount of time, often with no end in sight.
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| vaguely |
Used when something is done or described in an unclear or non-specific way.
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| imprecisely |
Used when something is not done with exactness or accuracy.
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| indefinably |
Used to describe something that cannot be precisely or clearly defined.
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Examples of usage
- The exact number of casualties remains indefinitely.
- The future of the company is still indefinitely uncertain.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- In philosophical discussions, 'indefinitely' refers to concepts or time that cannot be precisely defined.
- It raises questions about existence and the nature of infinite possibilities, often debated by existentialists.
- Immanuel Kant argued that our understanding of time is inherently limited, as we cannot comprehend the infinite.
Time Management
- In project management, tasks that are labeled as indefinite can lead to procrastination or unclear deadlines.
- 'Indefinitely' can indicate a need for flexibility, but it's important to set limits to maintain productivity.
- How one approaches indefinite timelines can significantly affect team morale and project success.
Law
- In legal terms, an 'indefinite sentence' can refer to a prison term without a specified end date, allowing for parole based on behavior.
- Contracts can sometimes be indefinite, meaning that they will last until one party decides to terminate the agreement.
- In law, an indefinite right may cause challenges as it lacks clarity on duration or extent of entitlement.
Science
- In quantum physics, the concept of time can be seen as indefinite at the subatomic level, challenging traditional definitions.
- Ecologists discuss indefinite human impacts on ecosystems, emphasizing sustainability and environmental limits.
- Thermodynamics includes concepts that deal with indefinite energy states, posing questions about eternal energy sources.
Origin of 'indefinitely'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'definite', which means 'certain'.
- It originated in Middle English, from the Latin 'indefinitus', highlighting a lack of boundaries or limits.
- The term has been part of the English language since the late 15th century.
The word 'indefinitely' originated from the Latin word 'indefinitus', which is a combination of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'definitus' meaning 'defined'. The term has been used in English since the 15th century. Over time, 'indefinitely' has evolved to represent the concept of something without fixed or specified limits, often used in a temporal context to indicate an unlimited or unspecified duration.
See also: definitely, indefiniteness.