inarticulate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌɪn.ɑːrˈtɪk.jʊ.lət/
KK: /ɪnˈɑrtɪkjʊlɪt/
adjective
Definition
Not able to express thoughts or feelings clearly in speech; often speechless or unclear in communication.
Example
After hearing the shocking news, he was inarticulate and could barely respond.
Conversation
I heard Tom was really inarticulate during his presentation yesterday.
Yeah, it was tough to follow what he was saying.
It's surprising because he usually communicates well.
I know! I think he was just really nervous.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mumbled
unclear
tongue-tied
Antonyms
articulate
eloquent
expressive
noun
Definition
A type of brachiopod that does not have a hinge connecting its two shell parts.
Example
The inarticulate species are fascinating because they lack the typical hinge found in other brachiopods.
Conversation
Did you know there are some species called inarticulate brachiopods?
Really? I’ve never heard of that before!
Yeah, they lack a hinge connecting their shell valves, which is interesting.
Root Explanation
Inarticulate → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "articulatus" (from Latin, meaning jointed or clearly expressed). The word "inarticulate" means not able to express oneself clearly or not jointed in speech.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to express clearly ('articulatus') — that's why inarticulate means unable to speak clearly.
Visually Confused Words
unarticulate
biarticulate
articulate
uniarticulate
unarticulated
triarticulate
disarticulate
biarticulated