Have you ever read a sentence like, “The event is postponed indefinitely”, and paused, wondering what indefinitely really means? You’re not alone! This word appears in emails, news articles, legal notices, and everyday conversations, but its meaning isn’t always obvious.
This guide explains what indefinitely means, how to use it correctly, examples in different contexts, similar words, FAQs, and even a mini quiz. By the end, you’ll confidently understand and use indefinitely in conversation and writing.
Quick Answer:
Indefinitely means “for an unlimited or unknown period of time.” It’s a formal and neutral word often used in professional, legal, or everyday contexts when the duration is unclear or open-ended.
🧠What Does Indefinitely Mean?
Indefinitely describes something without a set end or limit. It’s often used when a situation, decision, or event has no clear timeline.
Example in a sentence:
“The school will remain closed indefinitely due to renovations.”
In short:
Indefinitely = Without a set end = For an unlimited or unspecified period.
It conveys a sense of openness or uncertainty about duration.
📱 Where Is Indefinitely Commonly Used?
You’ll often encounter indefinitely in:
- Emails ✉️ — official notices or updates
- News articles 📰 — reporting delays or closures
- Legal documents ⚖️ — suspensions, bans, or rules
- Conversations 💬 — when referring to vague or unknown time frames
Tone: Formal or neutral âś…
Formality: Appropriate for professional or serious contexts ❌ Not slang
đź’¬ Examples of Indefinitely in Sentences
- “The train service has been suspended indefinitely.”
- “Her leave of absence was extended indefinitely due to health issues.”
- “The company froze hiring indefinitely until further notice.”
- “The protest was postponed indefinitely because of bad weather.”
- “The project deadline is postponed indefinitely until the budget is approved.”
These examples show that indefinitely conveys an unknown or unlimited period of time, often requiring follow-up or patience.
đź•“ When to Use and When NOT to Use Indefinitely
âś… When to Use
- Talking about events without a set end
- Legal, official, or formal notices
- Delays, suspensions, or open-ended timelines
- Serious or professional contexts
❌ When Not to Use
- Casual greetings or informal chats
- Slang-heavy texts or social media casual posts
- Precise timeframes (e.g., “until Friday” or “for 2 weeks”)
Comparison Table:
| Context | Example Phrase | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Official Notice | “Service suspended indefinitely.” | Neutral & formal |
| Casual Chat | “We’re hanging out indefinitely.” | Usually too vague |
| Legal Document | “The contract is valid indefinitely.” | Precise & correct usage |
🔄 Similar Words or Alternatives
| Word | Meaning | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Permanently | Forever, no end | Long-term or final situations |
| Temporarily | For a short or limited time | Short-term, definite duration |
| Until further notice | Open-ended until an update | Formal, professional use |
| For the foreseeable future | As long as expected | Neutral, flexible timeframe |
| Open-ended | No fixed limit | Informal or formal depending on context |
âť“ FAQs About Indefinitely
1. Is indefinitely a formal word?
Yes, it’s commonly used in professional, legal, and official contexts.
2. Can I use indefinitely in casual chat?
You can, but it may sound too formal or serious.
3. Is indefinitely the same as forever?
Not exactly. “Forever” is permanent, while “indefinitely” just means no set end time.
4. Can “indefinitely” refer to past events?
It’s usually future-focused or ongoing, not past events.
5. How do I pronounce indefinitely?
It’s pronounced: in-def-i-nit-lee
6. Can I replace indefinitely with “until further notice”?
Yes, especially in formal writing or announcements.
📝 Mini Quiz – Test Your Knowledge
1. What does indefinitely mean?
a) For a fixed short period
b) For an unlimited or unknown period âś…
c) Only for legal cases
2. Which is a synonym for indefinitely?
a) Permanently âś…
b) Temporarily
c) Briefly
3. When should you avoid using indefinitely?
a) Legal documents
b) Casual texts âś…
c) Official notices
4. “The store will remain closed indefinitely.” What does this mean?
a) Closed for a known short time
b) Closed without a clear end date âś…
c) Permanently demolished
5. Which of these is appropriate for “indefinitely”?
a) “Let’s hang out indefinitely.” ❌
b) “The contract is valid indefinitely.” ✅
c) “I’ll see you indefinitely.” ❌
đź“ť Conclusion
Indefinitely is a versatile word that conveys an unknown, unlimited, or open-ended period. It’s perfect for formal announcements, legal notices, and professional contexts where a specific end date isn’t available. Using it correctly makes your writing clear, precise, and professional.
