Cryptically: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when describing something that is intentionally obscure or difficult to understand.

• He spoke cryptically about the project, leaving everyone puzzled
• The email was cryptically written, making it hard to decipher its true meaning

Use this word to describe something that is puzzling or hard to explain, often invoking a sense of curiosity.

• The lights flickered mysteriously, as if there were a ghost in the room
• He disappeared mysteriously, leaving no trace behind

This word applies when highlighting actions done in secret or with an intention to hide something, often implying a suspicious or sneaky behavior. Negative connotation.

• She glanced around secretively before slipping out of the room
• He was acting secretively, making everyone wonder what he was hiding

This word is suitable when referring to something or someone that is mysterious and intriguing, often with an element of puzzle or deeper meaning.

• She smiled enigmatically, leaving him wondering what she meant
• The old man spoke enigmatically about the past, hinting at secrets long buried

Use when information is intentionally made difficult to understand or when someone is being deliberately vague.

• She replied cryptically, leaving everyone confused
• The message was written cryptically, so it was hard to figure out

Use when something is hidden, secret, or hard to understand, often invoking curiosity or wonder.

• The disappearance of the ship remains mysterious to this day
• She always had a mysterious air about her

Use when someone or something is mysterious and puzzling, often in an intriguing or fascinating way.

• His enigmatic smile made her more curious about him
• The artist is known for his enigmatic paintings

Use when something is unclear or can be interpreted in multiple ways. It doesn't necessarily imply intentional obscurity.

• His statement was ambiguous and left many people guessing
• The contract had ambiguous terms that needed clarification