How Do You Spell INDETERMINATE?

Pronunciation: [ˌɪndɪtˈɜːmɪnət] (IPA)

The word "indeterminate" is spelled with a combination of Latin and Greek roots, which can make it tricky to pronounce. Its IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription is /ɪnˈdɛtərmɪnət/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The "in-" prefix comes from Latin and means "not", while "determin-" comes from the Latin verb "determinare", meaning "to limit". The "-ate" suffix is also Latin, meaning "to make". Finally, the "-e" at the end and the "-er" in "determin-" come from the Greek word for "one who does". Together, they form a word meaning "not limited or defined".

INDETERMINATE Meaning and Definition

  1. Indeterminate is an adjective used to describe something that is not clearly defined or settled. It refers to a state of uncertainty, ambiguity, or lack of precision. This term can apply to various contexts, including mathematics, science, philosophy, and everyday situations.

    In mathematics, indeterminate refers to a problem or equation where the value cannot be determined or is infinite. It often involves variables with infinite or undefined values, making it impossible to calculate a precise solution.

    In science, indeterminate can relate to experiments or observations that yield uncertain or inconclusive results. These findings may lack clear patterns or conclusive evidence, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.

    In philosophy, indeterminate refers to concepts or ideas that are not well-defined or have multiple interpretations. It suggests a lack of absolute certainty or an inability to fully grasp the meaning or nature of something.

    In everyday life, indeterminate can describe situations or outcomes that are unpredictable, lacking clearly defined explanations or solutions. It may refer to uncertain weather conditions, an unclear course of action, or an inconclusive decision-making process.

    Overall, indeterminate signifies an absence of certainty, precision, or definiteness. It implies a condition of ambiguity or lack of clarity, making it challenging to determine or define a particular state, value, or outcome.

  2. Variable; indefinite; uncertain; in math., applied to problems which admit an unlimited number of solutions; in bot., applied to indefinite inflorescence.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for INDETERMINATE *

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Other Common Misspellings for INDETERMINATE

Etymology of INDETERMINATE

The word "indeterminate" originated from the Latin word "indeterminatus", which can be further broken down into "in-" meaning "not" and "determinatus" meaning "defined" or "limited". The term was later borrowed into Middle English as "indeterminat", and eventually evolved into the modern spelling and pronunciation of "indeterminate".

Similar spelling words for INDETERMINATE

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