Definition

Describing an action or event that does not have a defined endpoint or completion.

Example

The atelic nature of the verb means it can continue indefinitely without a specific conclusion.

Conversation

I was reading about different types of verbs and came across the term atelic yesterday.

Oh really? What does that mean?

It means an action that seems incomplete, like running or waiting.

That’s interesting! I never thought about it that way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Atelic is formed from "a-" (meaning without) and "telos" (from Greek, meaning end or goal). The word describes actions that do not have a defined endpoint or goal, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the activity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without an end' — 'a-' means without, and 'telos' means end. This helps you remember that atelic refers to actions that continue without a specific goal.

Visually Confused Words