obscure 1 of 2

1
2
3
4

obscure

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word obscure different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of obscure are ambiguous, cryptic, dark, enigmatic, equivocal, and vague. While all these words mean "not clearly understandable," obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge.

obscure poems

When can ambiguous be used instead of obscure?

The meanings of ambiguous and obscure largely overlap; however, ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation.

an ambiguous directive

In what contexts can cryptic take the place of obscure?

While the synonyms cryptic and obscure are close in meaning, cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning.

cryptic hints of hidden treasure

When is dark a more appropriate choice than obscure?

The words dark and obscure are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion.

muttered dark hints of revenge

When might enigmatic be a better fit than obscure?

The words enigmatic and obscure can be used in similar contexts, but enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality.

enigmatic occult writings

When could equivocal be used to replace obscure?

While in some cases nearly identical to obscure, equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading.

moral precepts with equivocal phrasing

Where would vague be a reasonable alternative to obscure?

In some situations, the words vague and obscure are roughly equivalent. However, vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration.

a vague sense of obligation

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 obscure
Adjective
More obscure repairs and custom solutions such as thinning, resurfacing and handle replacements are also available. Ahmed Ali Akbar, Chicago Tribune, 31 Mar. 2025 Whereas now, because of the internet, it’s created this whole other substrata of comedy fans who really want to see the more obscure. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 28 Mar. 2025
Verb
Political rhetoric perpetuates misunderstandings that obscure the economic struggles that unite these groups. Chicago Tribune, 31 Mar. 2025 The bill specifically targets those that obscure their faces while participating in physical or verbal intimidation and violence. Marc Morial, New York Daily News, 29 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for obscure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for obscure
Adjective
  • Religion is the topic most likely to cause offense in India today, though the code is ambiguous on this point too.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 3 Apr. 2025
  • One thing that is not ambiguous is that the spirit is drawing Mia into its world a little at a time.
    Katie Rife, Vulture, 31 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • For example, iMessage disables links in messages from unknown senders.
    Alex Vakulov, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2025
  • Currently, there is no data indicating the containment progress of the fire and its cause remains unknown.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 6 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Maddox does not make vague threats toward people who run afoul of him.
    Hannah Giorgis, The Atlantic, 4 Apr. 2025
  • The administration has been more vague, however, on programs such as classes that teach Black history.
    Lexi Lonas Cochran, The Hill, 3 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Immigration advocates, attorneys and civil litigators are warning against the normalization of federal agents concealing their faces while detaining nonviolent students.
    Emma Tucker, CNN Money, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Passport wallets are a great way to keep your important documents, money and cards all organized and concealed for extra peace of mind both in the airport and while out on your next adventure abroad.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Though rooted in self-love, these trends can blur the line between care and consumerism.
    Jasmine Browley, Essence, 26 Mar. 2025
  • On the other hand, holding a company liable for one person’s speech blurs the line between individual and collective responsibility.
    Kwame Anthony Appiah, New York Times, 26 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • And this looks to have that signature Souls flavor both in terms of combat and cryptic storytelling.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 2 Apr. 2025
  • Breakup rumors swirled around the Australian tennis star, 29, and his influencer girlfriend over the weekend after eagle-eyed fans noticed cryptic messaging on their respective social media accounts across Instagram and TikTok.
    Skyler Caruso, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Details are still murky with the plan yet to be formally presented to the all-powerful ICC board.
    Tristan Lavalette, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The process, however, has been murky based on which military branch people are looking to return to, with only the Navy offering a solid idea of the decision.
    Ellen Mitchell, The Hill, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Deeper within the planet, though, the surface might be emanating a faint red, due to incandescence resulting from being baked by its star.
    Shi En Kim, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Fore one, telescopes have difficulty distinguishing the faint light from a planet from the much brighter light emitted by its host star.
    Victoria Corless, Space.com, 1 Apr. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Obscure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obscure. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on obscure

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!