imperfect

/ˌɪm.pərˈfɛkt/
not perfect; having flaws

The painting was beautiful, though imperfect.

The painting had flaws but was still beautiful.


general

Not perfect; having flaws or defects.

Her singing was imperfect, but her passion made up for it.

Her singing had flaws, but her enthusiasm compensated for them.

Often used to describe things that are good but not flawless.

grammar

In grammar, a verb tense used to describe actions that were ongoing or habitual in the past.

The imperfect tense in Spanish is used to describe past actions.

The imperfect tense in Spanish describes actions that were ongoing or habitual in the past.

In Spanish, the imperfect tense is often used to describe past actions that were ongoing or habitual.

Collocations

imperfect butnot perfect but still goodimperfectlyin a flawed or incomplete way

Related Phrases

imperfect tensephrase
a verb tense used to describe past actions

Pro Tip

Usage Tip

Use 'imperfect' to describe things that are good but not perfect, or to refer to the imperfect tense in grammar.

Gold Rule

Grammar Rule

In Spanish, the imperfect tense is used to describe past actions that were ongoing or habitual.

Word Origin

From Latin 'imperfectus', meaning 'not finished' or 'not completed'.

Usage Notes

The word 'imperfect' is often used to describe things that are good but not flawless. It can also refer to the imperfect tense in grammar.

Word Breakdown

im-
not
prefix
+
perfect
complete or flawless
root
English Dictionary