| 释义 |
ˈtenseless, a.
[f. tense n. + -less.]
Having no tenses or distinctions of tense (loosely, not having the ordinary function of a tense, i.e. not expressing time). Hence ˈtenselessness.
1886Tenseless [see temporal a.1 5 b]. 1887W. G. Hale in Amer. Jrnl. Philol. Apr. 59 A sweeping doctrine like that of the tenselessness of all dependent subjunctives. 1889Classical Rev. Feb. 9 Maintaining that the tenses of the subjunctive are not tenseless.., but have each their proper temporal significance.
Add: ˈtenselessly adv., without (distinctions of) tense.
1961in Webster. 1981F. Inglis Promise of Happiness i. 19 In age, they speak in the imperfect tense... In youth, they speak tenselessly. |