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

Exactly how many of those came directly from jail is unclear. —Caitlin McGlade, Charlotte Observer, 20 Apr. 2026

Jenkins noted the drop could provide some short-term relief but with Middle East conditions still unclear, prices could move higher again. —Garfield Hylton, The Orlando Sentinel, 20 Apr. 2026

In addition to the labyrinth of unclear messaging around the campaign, Republicans say the ballot language itself is confusing. —Jahd Khalil, NPR, 20 Apr. 2026

Trump, in phone calls with reporters over the past two days, has vacillated between warmongering and offering unclear details about further negotiations. —Kevin Breuninger, CNBC, 20 Apr. 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