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

While most businesses invest in AI, only 5% of generative AI projects deliver real returns, with many failing due to unclear business value. — Bernard Marr, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Deputies said that there was no suspect information available and a motive was unclear as their investigation began. — Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 10 Aug. 2026

How much these psychosocial factors directly correlate with on-pitch success remains unclear, but this would not be the first time cultural links are made between football and national identity. — Mark Carey, New York Times, 9 Aug. 2026

The team also expects Bellinger, Judge and Stanton back before the season ends, though the latter two are operating on unclear timelines. — Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 9 Aug. 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