indistinct

Everyday

1. Not clear or sharp; hard to see, hear or remember clearly. tree →
2. Blurred or faint: indistinct shapes in the fog. tree →

In the lessons

In stories, indistinct voices, shapes and footsteps build mystery or fear. In science, a picture under a microscope is indistinct until you focus. In speaking lessons, mumbling makes speech indistinct. Phrases: indistinct voices, an indistinct shape, an indistinct memory.

Examples

• Indistinct voices came from behind the door. tree →
• An indistinct shape moved in the fog. tree →
• Turn the knob until the cell is no longer indistinct under the microscope. tree →
• My memory of being a baby is very indistinct. tree →
• He spoke so quietly his words were indistinct. tree →
• The old writing on the stone was indistinct. tree →
• Then the voice melted again into the indistinct murmur of the rustling leaves, and died gradually away. tree →

Note

Opposite: «distinct» (clear). Do not confuse with «extinct» (no longer living) or «instinct» (natural feeling).