Definition of Obscure
Quick Meaning of Obscure
Not clear or easy to understand; unclear and ambiguous; also, not well-known or famous; dim and hard to see.
Detailed Definition of Obscure
Not clearly expressed or easily understood; vague and ambiguous in meaning; also, not famous or well-known; hidden in darkness or shadow; indistinct and unclear.
How to Pronounce Obscure
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: uh-SKYUR. Stress the second syllable (KYUR). Two syllables: uh-SKYUR. The 'u' is pronounced like the 'u' in 'about'.
Watch out: Learners sometimes stress the first syllable (OB-scure) or mispronounce the 'u' sound. Correct: uh-SKYUR.
Origin and Etymology of Obscure
From Latin 'obscurus' (dark, dim, unclear), derived from 'ob-' (against, over) + 'scurus' (dark, shadowy). The root suggests being covered in darkness or shadow. Used in English since the 13th century to describe both visual obscurity (darkness) and intellectual obscurity (unclear meaning).
How to Use Obscure in a Sentence
Each example shows “obscure” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The obscure reference in the poem, known only to scholars of Renaissance literature, haunted the protagonist throughout the narrative.”
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“His obscure warnings about the political situation were dismissed as paranoia until the crisis actually occurred.”
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“The text's obscure diction and convoluted syntax required multiple readings to parse meaning.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Obscure
Common Synonyms for Obscure
Smart Synonyms for Obscure — When to Use Each
- unclear
- Not clear; general lack of clarity
- vague
- Lacking precision; imprecise and indefinite
- cryptic
- Mysterious and intentionally unclear; puzzle-like
Antonyms of Obscure
Common Collocations with Obscure
These phrases pair with “obscure” in everyday English:
- obscure reference
- obscure meaning
- obscure text
- obscure origin
- obscure figure
Common Mistakes When Using Obscure
Even fluent speakers slip up with “obscure”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The obscure explanation was perfectly clear and understandable.
- ✓ Correct: The obscure explanation required careful analysis to decode.
- Why: Obscure means unclear. 'Perfectly clear' directly contradicts this.
- ✗ Wrong: The obscure figure was famous throughout the world.
- ✓ Correct: The obscure figure worked in relative anonymity despite significant contributions.
- Why: Obscure means not well-known. 'Famous throughout the world' contradicts this.
- ✗ Wrong: She made an obscure statement that everyone immediately understood.
- ✓ Correct: She made an obscure statement that left listeners confused and uncertain.
- Why: Obscure means unclear and vague. 'Everyone immediately understood' is contradictory.
Other Forms of Obscure
Frequently Asked Questions About Obscure
What is the meaning of "Obscure"?
Not clear or easy to understand; unclear and ambiguous; also, not well-known or famous; dim and hard to see.
How do you pronounce "Obscure"?
The IPA is /əbˈskjʊr/. uh-SKYUR. Stress the second syllable (KYUR). Two syllables: uh-SKYUR. The 'u' is pronounced like the 'u' in 'about'.
What part of speech is "Obscure"?
"Obscure" is an adjective at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Obscure"?
Common synonyms include unclear, vague, cryptic.
How do you use "Obscure" in a sentence?
For example: "The obscure reference in the poem, known only to scholars of Renaissance literature, haunted the protagonist throughout the narrative."