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

Whether a judge has ruled on Seraphine’s placement is unclear because the proceedings are closed to the public. —Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 15 Feb. 2026

Colgrove shared the same home address as Carmona, according to court records, but their relationship is unclear. —Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Feb. 2026

While the full effects of the Big Game are still unclear, the economic benefits were almost certainly not shared equally across the region. —Ethan Varian, Mercury News, 15 Feb. 2026

But Republicans have said some Democratic demands are too burdensome, leaving it unclear how or when both sides will reach an agreement. —Victor Jacobo, CBS News, 14 Feb. 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