Unclear: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is commonly used when information or instructions are not easily understood. It highlights a lack of clarity.

• The directions on this map are unclear
• His explanation was unclear, making it hard to follow

This is used when something can be understood in more than one way, leaving room for multiple interpretations.

• The ending of the movie was ambiguous
• Her message was ambiguous, so I wasn't sure what she meant

Use this word when details are not specific enough, making it hard to understand or leaving doubt.

• Her plans for the weekend were vague
• The company's policy guidelines were too vague

This word generally means something is difficult to understand because it is not well known or is hidden. Often, it implies that additional effort is needed to understand it.

• The poet often used obscure references in his work
• The details of the contract were obscure, making it hard to comprehend

Used when something is not fully understood or is confusing. Often relates to information, instructions, or communication that lacks clarity.

• The instructions were unclear, so I didn't know how to assemble the furniture
• Her intentions are unclear; I don't know what she really wants

Refers to something that is not sharply defined, typically in relation to vision or images. It is often used to describe a visual impression or photograph that lacks focus.

• Without my glasses, everything looks blurry
• The photo came out blurry because the camera moved

Often used to describe something that is not clear or sharp in texture or appearance. It can also refer to indistinct thoughts or memories.

• The TV screen was fuzzy, making it hard to watch
• My memories of that day are a bit fuzzy

Used to describe something that is not clear enough to be recognized or understood, often relating to sounds, shapes, or outlines.

• The voices in the background were indistinct and hard to make out
• The shape of the object was indistinct in the fog

When something is not easy to understand or see, often because of a lack of information or a complex nature. It’s a common term used in everyday speech.

• The instructions were unclear
• It is unclear what the author meant

When something is not clearly expressed or defined, often because of a lack of detail. It can be used in both casual conversation and more formal contexts.

• He vaguely remembered the incident
• She described the place vaguely, making it hard to find

When something can be understood in more than one way and it's intentionally or unintentionally confusing. Often used in literature, legal texts, and everyday situations where multiple interpretations are possible.

• She answered ambiguously, leaving everyone confused
• The law was written ambiguously, causing different interpretations

When something is hidden, not well-known, or hard to understand due to its complexity or an intentional effort to conceal. It’s often used in academic or literary contexts.

• The old manuscript was written obscurely, making it hard to decipher
• He spoke obscurely about the topic, so few understood