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indefinite reference

[/ˌɪndɪˈfɪnət ˈrefrəns/]
nounpl: indefinite references
referência indefinida
1. A reference to something that is not clearly or specifically identified; a vague or ambiguous mention of a person, object, or idea
The pronoun 'it' in the sentence creates an indefinite reference because the antecedent is unclear.
O pronome 'it' na sentença cria uma referência indefinida porque o antecedente é pouco claro.
2. In linguistics and grammar, a reference that lacks a specific or definite antecedent
The essay suffered from indefinite references that made it difficult for readers to follow the argument.
O ensaio sofreu com referências indefinidas que tornaram difícil para os leitores acompanhar o argumento.
Synonyms
ambiguous referencevague referenceunclear referenceindefinite antecedent
Antonyms
definite referencespecific referenceclear referenceexplicit reference

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
referência indefinida
standard usage in academic and grammatical contexts
Portugal
referência indefinida
standard usage, same as Brazilian Portuguese

Related Idioms & Phrases

lose the thread of an argument
speak in vague terms
beat around the bush
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