WordGarden.ioindistinct
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌɪndɪstˈɪŋkt/
US
- /ˌɪndɪˈstɪŋkt/
Meanings
Adjective
not clear enough to see or hear sharply
vague or not clearly defined in thought, memory, or detail
Beyond the definition
Imagine trying to make out a shape in the fog. You know something is there, but the details are hard to see. That is what "indistinct" means. It describes something that is not clear or sharply defined, whether it is a sound, an image, a memory, or even an idea. A voice heard from far away might sound indistinct. A half-remembered dream can feel indistinct too. You can use the word when something reaches you only in a blurry, faint, or vague way.
The word "indistinct" describes something lacking clear definition or precision. It suggests a lack of sharpness, whether literal or figurative. Think about looking at distant mountains on a hazy day – the outlines are there, but they're softened and blurred; that's an indistinct view.
"Indistinct" can apply to many things. A sound might be indistinct if it is muffled or faint, like a murmur from the next room. A memory can be indistinct if you struggle to recall the details clearly. A face in an old photograph may look indistinct because the features are blurred. Even an idea can seem indistinct when it has not yet taken a clear shape in your mind.
It doesn't necessarily mean completely unclear; it implies a degree of vagueness or imprecision. A witness might give an indistinct description of a suspect, meaning they can offer some details but not a precise identification. A writer might use indistinct language to create a sense of mystery or ambiguity.
Historically, "indistinct" comes from the Latin indistinctus, meaning "not marked out." It's often used when something is difficult to perceive or understand, leaving you with an impression rather than a clear picture. So, if something feels fuzzy around the edges – whether visually, audibly, or conceptually – it's likely indistinct.
Examples
- 1
Low visibility
Through the fog, we could see only an indistinct outline of the bridge.
- 2
Quiet speech
Her reply was low and indistinct, and I had to ask her to repeat it.
- 3
Fading memories
After so many years, my memories of that apartment are a little indistinct.
- 4
Muffled voices
In the dark hallway, I could hear indistinct voices behind the door.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Unclear boundary
As the story spread, the line between rumor and fact became indistinct.
See also
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Shades of meaning
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Used with (collocations)
- indistinct outline
- indistinct voice
- indistinct figure
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- indistinctadjective