Indeterminable

Indeterminable describes something that cannot be precisely determined, ascertained, or established. It suggests a quality of vagueness, ambiguity, or elusiveness that prevents definitive conclusions. This could stem from a lack of sufficient information, inherent complexity, or the subjective nature of the subject matter. Often, an indeterminable factor introduces uncertainty into a situation, making predictions difficult or impossible. The term emphasizes the limits of knowledge or the difficulty of obtaining clear answers, leaving one with only a range of possibilities or an inability to provide an exact value. This inability to determine arises from the complexity and sometimes the randomness of a particular system. The idea is about having a problem and not being able to reach any conclusions.

Indeterminable meaning with examples

• The exact cause of the market crash was, at the time, considered indeterminable; economists cited a myriad of contributing factors, all acting in concert. The complex interplay of global economic conditions, coupled with individual investor behavior, created a chaotic scenario. Determining the precise weight of each influence was impossible. Instead, theories were presented, but none could be definitively proven, leaving an air of uncertainty hanging over the financial landscape.
• The artist's motivations behind the abstract painting were intentionally left indeterminable, as the piece encouraged viewers to find their own interpretation. The swirling colors and obscure shapes prompted diverse readings and meanings. The artist preferred the viewers to bring their own life experiences, instead of receiving instruction. The goal was to foster critical thinking, instead of being constrained by a rigid structure.
• The full extent of the damage caused by the earthquake remains indeterminable, with aftershocks and ongoing instability hindering rescue efforts. Rescue crews were unable to fully assess the condition of all buildings. The terrain was challenging and limited access to remote regions. As a result, officials could only estimate the number of people affected and the volume of aid required. Determining the true cost would take time.
• In quantum mechanics, the precise position and momentum of a particle are, according to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, fundamentally indeterminable simultaneously. One could know one or the other, but not both. The act of observing one property inevitably disturbs the other. The indeterminable nature reflects a fundamental limit on the precision of physical measurements at the subatomic level, challenging classic understandings.
• Despite the best efforts of the historians, the origin of the ancient civilization's language remains indeterminable, as no written records exist. Linguists and archaeologists have conducted countless research projects. They have pieced together clues from artifacts, oral traditions, and comparative studies, but the early stages of the language remain unclear. Speculation abounds, but a concrete, definitive answer evades their grasp.