unclear

adjective

un·​clear ˌən-ˈklir 

: not clear: such as

a

: difficult to understand

an unclear explanation

unclear instructions

an unclear reference

b

: confused or uncertain about something

—often used with about

was a little unclear about how to proceed

unclearly adverb

speaking unclearly

an unclearly remembered incident

Synonyms of unclear

• vague
• ambiguous

Examples of unclear in a Sentence

their suggestion for correcting the problem is a bit unclear

obtained at best an unclear glimpse of the rarely seen bird from across the road

Recent Examples on the Web

Disruption has been identified across the wider food supply chain, with the full impact still unclear. — Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 5 Nov. 2026

While no explosive devices have yet been found following bomb threats, the motivation behind the reports remains unclear. — Pau Mosquera, CNN Money, 5 Nov. 2026

Thursday’s confirmation ended nearly 16 months of uncertainty over Moore’s whereabouts, though the circumstances of his death remained unclear. — Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 5 Nov. 2026

The total extent of Democrats' majority is unclear as votes in several competitive races continue to be counted. — CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing unclear

• unclear on the concept of

Rhymes for unclear

• adhere
• ameer
• amir
• appear
• arrear
• astir
• austere
• career
• cashier
• cohere
• compere
• emir