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

For now, the circumstances that brought the two helicopters into contact near McMinnville Municipal Airport remain unclear. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2026

As to whether a kind of spiritual malaise or panic might result from aliens revealing themselves, that’s unclear. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 29 Oct. 2026

Why some patients develop them and others don’t is still unclear. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 29 Oct. 2026

The charges against Panahi, who’d returned to the country in March, remain unclear, per the outlet. — Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 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