Unclearly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unclearly

[ˌʌnˈklɪərli ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

incomprehensible

In a way that is not clear or easily understood. Unclearly can refer to something that is vague, ambiguous, or confusing.

Synonyms

ambiguously, indistinctly, vaguely.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unclearly	Used when something is not explained or expressed in a way that is easy to understand. He spoke unclearly, making it difficult for everyone to grasp his point. The instructions were given unclearly, leading to confusion.
indistinctly	Used when something is not clear in form, outline, or sound, often because it is difficult to see or hear. The figure could be seen indistinctly in the fog. He mumbled indistinctly, so no one knew what he was saying.
vaguely	Used when something is not clearly or explicitly stated or found hard to define or describe. She gave a vaguely remembered account of the event. The details of the plan were vaguely outlined.
ambiguously	Used when something is open to more than one interpretation or meaning. The statement was written ambiguously, leaving everyone unsure of its actual meaning. She smiled ambiguously, and he couldn't tell if she was happy or sad.

Examples of usage

He spoke so unclearly that I couldn't understand him.
She expressed her thoughts unclearly, leaving us all confused.
The instructions were written unclearly, causing many to make mistakes.
The message was delivered unclearly, leading to misunderstandings.
The concept was explained unclearly, resulting in confusion.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Unclear communication can lead to misunderstandings, as research shows that clarity enhances information retention and comprehension.
When instructions are unclearly articulated, it can cause anxiety and frustration, influencing how people perceive and react to situations.

Education

In teaching, clarity is vital; unclear explanations can result in significant gaps in knowledge, impacting students' learning outcomes.
Educators often use visual aids to reduce confusion and ensure concepts are communicated clearly.

Pop Culture

In movies, a scene portrayed unclearly can create suspense, making the audience question what's happening and keeping them engaged.
Unclear lyrics in songs sometimes add a layer of mystery, allowing listeners to interpret the meaning in various ways.

Literature

Authors sometimes use unclear language intentionally to create an atmosphere of ambiguity, inviting readers to explore multiple interpretations.
Classic literary works often feature characters who express their feelings unclearly, which reflects their inner turmoil and complexity.

Origin of 'unclearly'

Main points about word origin

The word originates from the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', combined with 'clear', which comes from the Old English 'clyre', meaning 'bright' or 'clear'.
The use of 'unclear' has been documented in English texts since the 15th century, indicating something is not defined or is ambiguous.

The word 'unclearly' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the root word 'clear'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century, evolving from Middle English and Old English origins. Over time, 'unclearly' has become widely used to describe situations or communication that lacks clarity or understanding.