Indefiniteness

Indefiniteness is the state or quality of being vague, uncertain, or not clearly defined. It implies a lack of precision, a want of specific limits or boundaries, and a difficulty in establishing a firm understanding or a definite conclusion. This ambiguity can relate to concepts, terms, quantities, durations, or even the nature of something itself. It frequently involves open-endedness, leaving room for multiple interpretations or outcomes, and often arises when information is incomplete, contradictory, or simply not articulated in a clear or decisive manner. Indefiniteness fosters uncertainty, preventing the formulation of fixed plans or conclusive judgments, and can be frustrating when clarity is desired.

Indefiniteness meaning with examples

• The contract's use of 'reasonable effort' introduced a frustrating level of Indefiniteness, leaving both parties unsure of their exact obligations. What constituted 'reasonable' was not spelled out and left ample room for different interpretations which made it difficult to avoid later disputes. The judge ultimately had to define that to be considered 'reasonable'. The situation highlighted the drawbacks of vague legal language.
• The philosopher grappled with the Indefiniteness inherent in abstract concepts like 'justice'. Despite centuries of discussion, no universally agreed upon definition exists, leading to endless debates. This lack of precision fueled further discussions with no possible conclusion, preventing a perfect solution. Such Indefiniteness is part of what keeps the subject matter interesting and complex.
• The artist intentionally employed a brushstroke style that leaned into Indefiniteness, blurring the lines between representation and abstraction. Their works invited individual interpretation, refusing to provide a singular, definitive reading of the art piece's content or theme. Many viewers found the indefinite nature of the art piece both appealing and engaging, causing many discussions.
• The doctor was frustrated by the Indefiniteness surrounding the diagnosis, as the symptoms could be attributed to multiple conditions. They had to perform many more tests to attempt to reach any conclusion about the nature of the medical issues. This made it difficult to recommend a targeted treatment plan, which delayed relief for the patient, adding to anxiety.
• The government's policy statement was criticized for its indefiniteness; promising change without specifying the concrete steps required. Critics argued that this vagueness allowed the government to evade responsibility, potentially delaying progress. The public was left to wonder if they would keep their campaign promises in good faith and with a sense of purpose.