HOME > LOOK UP & LEARN

V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


inarticulate

adjective

Definition: not able to speak clearly, understandably, or effectively

Synonyms: incoherent, unintelligible, faltering, incomprehensible, disjointed

Antonyms: articulate, clear, understandable, comprehensible, coherent

Tips: In biology, inarticulate means "not joined." This was the original meaning of the word. It carries over to modern usage in that inarticulate speech is often disjointed. Inarticulate and incoherent are synonymous. Use inarticulate to describe someone who is having a difficult time expressing himself or finding the right words. Use incoherent to describe someone who is unclear or unorganized in expressing himself.

Usage Examples:

Although he was a bright young man, he always became hopelessly inarticulate when the girl he liked came around. (incoherent, faltering)

The choking man tried to ask for help, but all that came out were inarticulate squeaks and gasps. (unintelligible, incoherent)

Why is it that men are hopelessly inarticulate whenever asked to describe their emotions? (incoherent, disjointed, faltering)

His speech was inarticulate; I'm afraid it's because he had too much to drink earlier in the night. (disjointed, faltering, incoherent)


Want to Learn More Words Like inarticulate?
Discover How You Can Improve Your
Vocabulary 10 to 100 Times Faster with
the Power Vocabulary Builder

Dear Friend,

The definition and lessons for the word inarticulate were made available by the Power Vocabulary Builder.

The Power Vocabulary Builder will help you develop a fuller, richer vocabulary 10 to 100 times faster than any other program available.

Visit the the Power Vocabulary Builder site right now to discover how you can get full access to this breakthrough program today!

What's your vocabulary level?
Power Vocabulary Builder
FREE E-mail Course!

Drop your details in the boxes below to receive a FREE vocabulary course: