unspecified

Everyday

Unspecified means not stated clearly or exactly: an unspecified number, at an unspecified time. tree →

In the lessons

Formal word in exam, legal and news language. In maths word problems, «an unspecified number» means a number not given — you may need to find it, or call it a letter like n. In everyday life, «for an unspecified reason» means the reason was not said.

Examples

• The prize money is an unspecified amount. tree →
• He left the club for unspecified reasons. tree →
• A box holds an unspecified number of sweets; call it n. tree →
• The shop will be closed for an unspecified time. tree →
• The rules leave the size of the team unspecified. tree →
• The letter came from an unspecified address. tree →

Note

Formal: in speech say «not said» or «not given». «Un-» + «specified» (stated exactly). In maths, an unspecified number is an unknown: it is not zero, it is just not told.