indistinct

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɪnˈdɪstɪŋkt/

KK: /ɪnˈdɪstəŋkt/

adjective

Definition

Not clear or easy to see or understand; lacking sharpness or clarity.

Example

The indistinct shapes in the fog made it hard to see the path ahead.

Conversation

Did you see that painting at the gallery?

Yeah, but I found the figures a bit indistinct in the background.

I agree, it made the whole piece feel a little confusing.

Exactly! I wish the details were clearer.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

vague

faint

hazy

Antonyms

clear

distinct

sharp

Root Explanation

Indistinct is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "distinct" (from Latin "distinctus", meaning separated or distinguished). The word describes something that is not clear or not easily distinguished.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being added to 'distinct', which means clear or separate. This helps you remember that 'indistinct' refers to something that is not clear or easily recognized.

Visually Confused Words

undistinct

instinct