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

• 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

Future research could also explore why omega-3s appear to be more protective for women—something that’s currently unclear. —Brian Mastroianni, Health, 5 Sep. 2025

The origin of reunions is unclear; scholarship on the tradition is scarce. —Jordan Michelman, The Atlantic, 4 Sep. 2025

Quick hits Tigers reliever Kyle Finnegan suffered right groin tightness while warming up during Wednesday's game, and the severity of the injury is unclear. —Christian Romo, Freep.com, 4 Sep. 2025

Young's relationship status is unclear, but her character on The Paper is Detrick Moore's crush, according to Entertainment Weekly. —Christopher Rudolph, PEOPLE, 4 Sep. 2025

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