01
unbestimmt
indefinite
Not precisely fixed, vague, or unclear.
example
Der Liefertermin ist noch unbestimmt.
The delivery date is still indefinite.
unbestimmt
indefinite / vague
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word consists of the prefix 'un-' and the adjective 'bestimmt' (certain/specific). 'Bestimmt' means 'sicher' (certain) or 'spezifisch' (specific). The prefix 'un-' negates the base word, so 'unbestimmt' literally means 'not certain' or 'not specific'.
EXAMPLE
Die genaue Ursache des Problems ist noch unbestimmt.
The exact cause of the problem is still indefinite.
Typical collocations
In its main meaning, 'unbestimmt' (indefinite) is often combined with nouns that describe information or a plan. Typical examples are: 'ein unbestimmter Ort' (an unspecified place), 'eine unbestimmte Anzahl' (an unspecified number), or 'eine unbestimmte Zukunft' (an uncertain future).
EXAMPLE
Eine unbestimmte Anzahl von Gästen hat sich angemeldet.
An unspecified number of guests has registered.
Fixed expression
The phrase 'auf unbestimmte Zeit' (for an indefinite period of time) is a very common fixed expression. It means that the duration of a situation has not been fixed and you do not know when it will end.
EXAMPLE
Die Ausstellung wurde auf unbestimmte Zeit verlängert.
The exhibition was extended for an indefinite period of time.
Typical collocation
To describe a vague feeling or intuition, 'unbestimmt' (vague) is almost always used in the combination 'ein unbestimmtes Gefühl' (a vague feeling). It expresses that you sense something is there, but cannot say exactly what.
EXAMPLE
Ich hatte das unbestimmte Gefühl, beobachtet zu werden.
I had the vague feeling that I was being watched.
Context clue
This meaning is a technical term from grammar. You can recognize it because it is used together with words like 'Artikel' (article), 'Pronomen' (pronoun), or 'Zahlwort' (numeral).
EXAMPLE
Wörter wie „jemand“ oder „etwas“ nennt man unbestimmte Pronomen.
Words like 'jemand' (someone) or 'etwas' (something) are called indefinite pronouns.
Compare with
unbestimmt vs bestimmt
certain / specific
'bestimmt' and 'unbestimmt' are opposites when it comes to precision. 'bestimmt' means that something is specific or fixed. 'unbestimmt' means that something is not precisely fixed, vague, or unclear. This can refer to a thing, a period of time, or even a feeling. The words can be confusing because 'bestimmt' can also express certainty as an adverb. In this contrast, however, the focus is on the adjectival meaning: fixed or not fixed.
unbestimmt
Seit dem Morgen hat Lena ein unbestimmtes Gefühl, dass etwas nicht stimmt.
Since this morning, Lena has had a vague feeling that something is wrong.
bestimmt
Für den Einkauf im Büro gibt es einen bestimmten Betrag.
There is a specific amount for office shopping.
In real life
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