unclear

adjective

un·​clear ˌən-ˈklir How to pronounce unclear (audio)
Synonyms of unclearnext
: 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

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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
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.
With prospects for a deal toward ending the war with Iran unclear, the stability of oil supplies remains uncertain with the Strait of Hormuz nearly closed, blocking a vital route for oil and gas tankers from the Middle East. — ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026 Whether Kidman’s performance inched the price upward remains unclear. — Ara H. Merjian, ARTnews.com, 16 Aug. 2026 Exactly how states will respond is unclear, says Lindsey Dawson, director of LGBTQ Health Policy at the nonpartisan health research organization KFF. — Selena Simmons-Duffin, NPR, 16 Aug. 2026 The long-term futures of his fellow midfielders Edson Alvarez, 28, and Soungoutou Magassa, 22, are unclear. — Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unclear

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unclear was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing unclear

Rhymes for unclear

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Browse Nearby Words

uncleanly
unclear
uncleared
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Cite this Entry

“Unclear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unclear. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on unclear

Nglish: Translation of unclear for Spanish Speakers

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