an indeterminate amount of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an indeterminate amount of time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a time period that is not fixed or cannot be precisely measured. Example: "The project will take an indeterminate amount of time to complete due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

There he stays for an indeterminate amount of time.

The New York Times

And for high achievers, the destabilizing effects of being forced out for an indeterminate amount of time cannot be underestimated.

Harvard Business Review

The document remained at his home in Vienna, Va., for an indeterminate amount of time, the inspector general said.

The New York Times

The maximum punishment for such offences is an indeterminate amount of time in a solitary confinement cell.

The Guardian

Mr. Luccketti insists on the caveat that only a small number — fewer than a dozen — were present for an indeterminate amount of time.

The New York Times - Science

Wolverine and his brother are recruited to join a special forces unit, which they remain in for an indeterminate amount of time.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

We would need to continuously run the ADC, which takes a non-negligible and indeterminate amount of time to complete a conversion, and switch it among three channels.

Cornell University

But, according to the New Times Broward-Palm Beach, Hironimus received an ultimatum from Judge Jeffrey Gillen: Sign a form consenting to the procedure, or be stuck in jail for some indeterminate amount of time.

Vice

The Census Bureau attributed an indeterminate amount of the increase to revised definitions adopted in 2007, which identify as parents any man and woman living together, whether or not they are married or the child's biological parents.

The New York Times

Is an indeterminate amount of pressure really lessened by a couple more minutes of waiting?

Los Angeles Times

Justice Benjamin Cardozo, in Ultramares Corp. v. Touche, 174 N.E. 441 (N.Y. 1931), expressed the danger of expanding the concept of duty in tort to include economic interests and consequent exposure of defendants "to a liability in an indeterminate amount for an indeterminate time to an indeterminate class.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an indeterminate amount of time", ensure the context clearly indicates why the duration is unspecified and what implications this has for the subject matter. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "an indeterminate amount of time" when specific timelines or deadlines are necessary. Opt for more precise language to maintain clarity and accountability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an indeterminate amount of time" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause by specifying the duration of an action or state. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in describing uncertain or unspecified timeframes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an indeterminate amount of time" is a phrase used to describe a duration that is not precisely known or specified. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, especially in News & Media. It serves to indicate uncertainty about the length of an event or condition. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly conveys why the duration is unspecified to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "an unspecified period" or "an unknown length of time" offer similar meanings with subtle differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unspecified period

Focuses on the duration being not specifically defined.

an undefined duration

Highlights the lack of a clear boundary for the time.

an indefinite period

Implies that the time frame is not fixed and may be ongoing.

an unknown length of time

Emphasizes the uncertainty about how long something will last.

an uncertain duration

Highlights the unpredictability of the time frame.

an unquantifiable duration

Highlights the inability to measure or specify the length of time.

a considerable amount of time

Suggests a notably long duration, without specifying exactly how long.

a significant period

Emphasizes the importance or impact of the unspecified time.

a vague timeframe

Focuses on the lack of precision in defining the time limits.

for the foreseeable future

Suggests an extended but not necessarily unlimited duration.

FAQs

How can I use "an indeterminate amount of time" in a sentence?

You can use "an indeterminate amount of time" to describe a duration that is not precisely known or specified. For instance, "The recovery process may take "an indeterminate amount of time" depending on the patient's condition".

What phrases are similar to "an indeterminate amount of time"?

Similar phrases include "an unspecified period", "an undefined duration", or "an unknown length of time", all indicating an uncertain duration.

Is it appropriate to use "an indeterminate amount of time" in formal writing?

Yes, "an indeterminate amount of time" is appropriate in formal writing when the exact duration is genuinely unknown or irrelevant. However, strive for more precise language if possible. Otherwise, use alternative like "a considerable amount of time" to sound more formal.

What's the difference between "an indeterminate amount of time" and "a finite amount of time"?

"An indeterminate amount of time" refers to a duration that is not precisely known or specified, while "a finite amount of time" indicates that the duration is limited and will eventually end. For example, compare "an unspecified period" with "a limited duration".