Indeterminate

Indeterminate describes something that is not precisely known, defined, or established; lacking clarity or definiteness. It implies uncertainty about the extent, nature, or identity of a thing. It can refer to quantities, outcomes, conclusions, or even the boundaries of something. The term highlights the absence of definitive parameters or a fixed state. It can often be used when precise information is unavailable, or a conclusive answer is unattainable, often suggesting room for speculation, ambiguity, and continued investigation. The state of being Indeterminate can also apply to a person who is indecisive or unsettled.

Indeterminate meaning with examples

• The final cost of the renovation project remained Indeterminate for months due to fluctuating material prices and unexpected repairs. The contractors couldn't provide a definite price, frustrating the homeowner. The budget's uncertainty created financial planning difficulties, and any final amount was open to speculation. Ultimately, the final bill exceeded the initial projections considerably, revealing how complex project variables made precise costing indeterminate.
• After the earthquake, the number of casualties was initially Indeterminate, as rescue workers struggled to reach affected areas and assess the extent of the damage. News reports presented conflicting numbers. Families anxiously awaited news of loved ones, facing the Indeterminate nature of the situation. Accurate counts became possible once comprehensive search and rescue operations concluded. It took weeks to give an accurate number of casualties, highlighting the initial Indeterminate state.
• The lawyer argued that the defendant's guilt was Indeterminate due to the lack of conclusive evidence linking him to the crime. The prosecution's case relied on circumstantial details. The defense emphasized the gaps in the evidence. The jury struggled with the uncertain testimony and the Indeterminate nature of the case, resulting in a not-guilty verdict. The Indeterminate case prevented certainty.
• The painting's meaning was deliberately Indeterminate, inviting viewers to interpret the abstract forms and colors in their own ways. The artist refused to offer any explanation, encouraging personal engagement with the artwork. The subjective experience created by the Indeterminate nature of the piece allowed for a variety of viewpoints, fostering diverse analyses. This uncertainty was the intention of the artist.