Word: indeterminate (adjective)

Associations

The word "indeterminate" means something that is not clearly fixed, decided, or known. It describes things that are vague, uncertain, or not clearly defined.

• In science, an indeterminate result means the test did not give a clear yes or no answer.
• In math, an indeterminate form appears when you try to solve limits but get an unclear expression like 0/0.
• In everyday life, you might say, "The time of the meeting is indeterminate," meaning it is not set yet.

A well-known synonym is "uncertain." The difference is that "indeterminate" often suggests something is not only unknown but also not clearly measurable or decided, while "uncertain" can be more general about doubt or lack of confidence.

Substitution

You can replace "indeterminate" with:

• uncertain (less formal, more common)
• undefined (usually technical or math contexts)
• vague (more about lack of detail)
• unclear (general use)

Each substitution changes the tone slightly. For example, "uncertain" is softer, while "undefined" is more technical.

Deconstruction

"Indeterminate" comes from Latin:

• prefix "in-" means "not"
• root "determinare" means "to determine" or "to decide"
• suffix "-ate" forms an adjective

So, "indeterminate" literally means "not determined" or "not decided."

Inquiry

• Can you think of a situation where something is indeterminate in your life? Maybe a plan or a feeling?
• How would you explain the difference between something that is "uncertain" and something that is "indeterminate"?
• Can you find examples in science, math, or daily life where this word fits well?