indefinitely

Everyday

1. Indefinitely means for a time that has no fixed end; we do not know when it will stop. tree →
2. (rare) Indefinitely can mean in an unclear or uncertain way. tree →

In the lessons

In news, school letters and formal notices: «The pool is closed indefinitely», «postponed indefinitely». In maths, a pattern can go on indefinitely, without stopping. It tells the reader there is no planned end. Phrases: closed indefinitely, postponed indefinitely, continue indefinitely.

Examples

• The swimming pool is closed indefinitely for repairs. tree →
• The match was postponed indefinitely because of the storm. tree →
• You can't stay at your friend's house indefinitely. tree →
• The pattern 2, 4, 6, 8… goes on indefinitely. tree →
• The road will be shut indefinitely. tree →
• The robot can work indefinitely if it has power. tree →
• The crocodile passes, but soon the boys appear again, for the procession must continue indefinitely until one of the parties stops or changes its pace. tree →

Note

Spelling: in-DEF-in-ite-ly — «-ite», not «-ate». Not the same as «infinitely» (without any limit at all) — «indefinitely» just means no end has been set. Opposite: for a fixed time, temporarily (for a short time).