Murkiness: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe something that lacks clarity or is difficult to see through, often because of contamination, either literal or figurative.

• The murkiness of the water made it impossible to see the bottom of the lake.
• She was puzzled by the murkiness of his intentions.

Best used to describe the absence of light or a lack of knowledge, clarity, or hope.

• The darkness in the cave was so intense that we couldn't see our hands in front of our faces.
• She felt engulfed by the darkness of depression.

Suitable for describing a mood or atmosphere that is depressing, sad, or melancholic.

• The constant rain added to the gloominess of the day.
• He couldn't shake off the gloominess that settled over him after the bad news.

Best when referring to something that is not well known, not easily understood, or hidden from view.

• The poet remained in obscurity for most of his life.
• The details of the ancient ritual are lost in obscurity.

Used to describe a situation or condition that is dark, unclear, and confusing, often in a physical or metaphorical sense.

• The murkiness of the water made it difficult to see any fish.
• The murkiness of their motives left everyone in doubt.

Used when something can be understood in two or more possible ways, often causing confusion. It applies to statements or situations that are not clear in meaning.

• The contract's ambiguity led to a lot of misunderstandings.
• Her words were filled with ambiguity, leaving everyone unsure of her true feelings.

Often used in technical or scientific contexts to describe the quality of being opaque, either literally, like a physical substance that does not let light pass through, or metaphorically, like a concept that is difficult to understand.

• The opacity of the glass blocked any view of the inside.
• The opacity of the legal text made it hard for the layperson to understand.

Describes something that lacks precision or detail, often leading to confusion or uncertainty. This can apply to statements, ideas, or feelings that are not clearly defined.

• His instructions were filled with vagueness, making it hard to follow.
• The vagueness of her proposal left many questions unanswered.