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Inarticulate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Inarticulate describes someone unable to express ideas or feelings clearly, often due to lack of skill, nervousness, or confusion. It can also refer to unclear speech or writing.

inarticulate

/ˌɪnɑːrˈtɪkjələt/ /ˌɪnɑːˈtɪkjʊlət/

Definition:

Unable to express ideas clearly or coherently in speech or writing.

Synonyms:

incoherent, unintelligible, mumbled, tongue-tied

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

articulate, eloquent, fluent

Common Collocations:

inarticulate speech, inarticulate sounds, inarticulate response

Derivatives:

inarticulately, inarticulateness

Usage Tips:

Use "inarticulate" to describe someone struggling to express thoughts clearly, often due to nervousness or lack of skill.

Common Phrases:

inarticulate with rage, rendered inarticulate, inarticulate mumbling

Etymology:

From Latin "inarticulatus," meaning "not distinct or clear."

Examples:

  • 1. She was so nervous that her words came out in an inarticulate jumble.
  • 2. He gave an inarticulate reply when asked about his feelings.
  • 3. The toddler's speech was still mostly inarticulate babble.
  • 4. His anger left him almost inarticulate with frustration.
  • 5. The professor dismissed the student's argument as vague and inarticulate.

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