Is 'amorphous' formal or informal?

What's the difference between 'amorphous' and 'vague'?

How is 'amorphous' different from 'vague'?

Can 'amorphous' describe ideas?

Is 'amorphous' used in academic writing?

Is 'amorphous' common in academic writing?

← Dictionary

amorphous

/əˈmɔːfəs/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Having no definite shape or form; not clearly defined.

The clay stayed amorphous before firing.
His plans were amorphous and unclear.

Adinary Nuance

Distinguish 'amorphous' from near-neighbors like 'shapeless', 'formless', and 'vague'. Use 'amorphous' for physical lack of structure; choose 'vague' mainly for ideas or plans, and note that 'formless' often has a more artistic or spiritual tone.

In other languages

Spanish: Amorfo
Japanese: 形のない
Korean: 형상이 없는
Vietnamese: Vô hình
Chinese: 无定形的

Common phrases

amorphous structureamorphous materialamorphous shape

Synonyms

shapeless formless structureless unshaped without form

Related words

shape form structure substance material

Frequently asked questions

Is 'amorphous' formal or informal?: Is 'amorphous' formal or informal?
What's the difference between 'amorphous' and 'vague'?: How is 'amorphous' different from 'vague'?
Can 'amorphous' describe ideas?: Can 'amorphous' describe ideas?
Is 'amorphous' used in academic writing?: Is 'amorphous' common in academic writing?