Unformed: meaning, definitions and examples

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unformed

 

[ ˌʌnˈfɔːrmd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

incomplete

Not having a definite or recognizable shape or form; not fully developed or organized.

Synonyms

amorphous, shapeless, unshaped.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unformed

When something lacks a clear structure or is still developing. Often used in a developmental or early stage context.

  • The unformed idea needed more time to develop
  • The artist’s concept was still unformed
shapeless

Refers to something lacking a distinct shape. This term often has a negative connotation, particularly when describing physical objects or aesthetics.

  • The shapeless dress did nothing for her figure
  • His dreams were shapeless and vague
amorphous

Used when describing something without a clear shape, form, or structure. Often used in scientific, abstract, or figurative contexts.

  • The amorphous cloud drifted across the sky
  • The plan remained amorphous without concrete steps
unshaped

Used when something has not been given a distinct shape or form but doesn't necessarily carry a developmental connotation. Commonly used in physical or craft contexts.

  • The unshaped clay waited on the potter’s wheel
  • The project showed promise but was unshaped

Examples of usage

  • The artist's unformed ideas began to take shape as she worked on her masterpiece.
  • The unformed clay lacked detail and precision.
  • His unformed thoughts made it difficult for him to express himself clearly.
Context #2 | Adjective

undeveloped

Not fully developed or matured; lacking experience or sophistication.

Synonyms

immature, inexperienced, naive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unformed

Use 'unformed' when talking about something that is not fully developed or has not taken on a final shape. This word can refer to ideas, plans, or physical forms.

  • The artist's concept was still unformed, just a rough sketch on paper.
  • Her thoughts on the project were still unformed, so she didn't share them yet.
immature

Use 'immature' when referring to someone who behaves like they are younger than their age or to something that has not fully developed. This word usually has a negative connotation.

  • His behavior at the meeting was very immature, interrupting people and making jokes.
  • The technology is still immature and needs more testing before it can be released.
inexperienced

Use 'inexperienced' to describe someone who lacks experience or practice in a particular area or activity.

  • She was inexperienced in public speaking, so she was quite nervous during her presentation.
  • The team is full of inexperienced players who are new to the league.
naive

Use 'naive' to describe someone who lacks worldly experience or is overly trusting and simplistic in their viewpoint. This word can have a negative or a sympathetic connotation.

  • He was naive to believe that everyone he met had good intentions.
  • Her naive optimism made her believe that the problem would solve itself.

Examples of usage

  • The unformed musician had potential but needed more practice.
  • Her unformed skills prevented her from excelling in her career.
  • The unformed relationship between the two countries needed time to grow.

Translations

Translations of the word "unformed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não formado

🇮🇳 अविकसित

🇩🇪 ungeformt

🇮🇩 belum terbentuk

🇺🇦 неоформлений

🇵🇱 nieuformowany

🇯🇵 未形成

🇫🇷 non formé

🇪🇸 no formado

🇹🇷 biçimsiz

🇰🇷 형성되지 않은

🇸🇦 غير مُشكَّل

🇨🇿 neformovaný

🇸🇰 neformovaný

🇨🇳 未成形

🇸🇮 neoblikovan

🇮🇸 ómyndaður

🇰🇿 қалыптаспаған

🇬🇪 უწესრიგო

🇦🇿 formalaşmamış

🇲🇽 no formado

Etymology

The word 'unformed' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'formed', ultimately deriving from the Latin word 'formare' meaning 'to shape'. The term has been used in English language to describe things that lack shape, form, or development since the 15th century.

See also: amorphic, conform, deform, deformed, form, formal, formality, formally, formation, formative, formatter, formed, former, formerly, formic, forming, formless, forms, malform, malformation, multiformity, preformative, reform.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,293, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.