INSCRUTABLE Synonyms: 143 Similar and Opposite Words

inscrutable

adjective

in-ˈskrü-tə-bəl

Definition of inscrutable next

as in mysterious

being beyond one's powers to know, understand, or explain the many inscrutable beliefs of that ancient religion

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in ambiguous

having an often intentionally veiled or uncertain meaning ancient oracles typically uttered inscrutable prophecies that could be interpreted almost any way one chose

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of inscrutable Later, Harper returns the favor, watching with rapt admiration when Eric pivots and gains a foothold during a CNN confrontation with Tender’s inscrutable CFO Whitney (Max Minghella), who is fighting against a new audit for his fiscally defunct company. —

Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 15 Feb. 2026 The world and its systems are inscrutable, and attempts to understand are dangerous, and often thwarted. —

James Folta, Literary Hub, 5 Feb. 2026 In this inscrutable economy, prestige has a way of slipping between people and objects. —

John Phipps, New Yorker, 17 Jan. 2026 Still others were more inscrutable. —

Katie Palmer, STAT, 14 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inscrutable

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inscrutable

Adjective

Remote and mysterious, Rapa Nui continues to awe visitors who wonder how its earliest navigators found this isolated corner of the Pacific.

— Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 11 Mar. 2026
This is the most mysterious part of this for now.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026