imperfect

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a tense of verbs used in describing action that is on-going
  2. adjective not perfect; defective or inadequate
  3. adjective wanting in moral strength, courage, or will; having the attributes of man as opposed to e.g. divine beings

Etymology

From Middle English imperfit, from Old French imparfit (modern French imparfait), from Latin imperfectus. Spelling modified 15c. to conform Latin etymology. See im- + perfect.

In classic literature

Synonyms

progressive, progressive tense, imperfect tense, continuous tense

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