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unclear, evident, obvious, manifest

ambiguous,confusing,cryptic,equivocal,esoteric,nebulous,uncertain,vague

obscure

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How to pronounce obscure (audio)

Dictionary definition of obscure

Unclear or difficult to understand, usually due to a lack of information or being hidden from view.
"The obscure language spoken by the tribe is difficult to learn."

Detailed meaning of obscure

It can also describe something that is not well-known or popular, or that is not easily accessible or readily available. For example, an obscure reference in a book might be a quotation from a little-known author or a historical event that is not widely studied. Similarly, an obscure language might be one that is spoken by a small group of people or that is not taught in schools or universities. In general, the term 'obscure' implies a level of obscurity or complexity that requires additional effort or knowledge to fully comprehend.

Example sentences of obscure

1. The obscure origins of the ancient artifact puzzled historians for years.
2. Her handwriting was so obscure that deciphering it became a daunting task.
3. The details of the classified operation remained obscure to the public.
4. An obscure reference in the text left readers searching for its meaning.
5. The star's career started in obscurity but soon soared to fame.
6. The obscure alleyway was a hidden gem in the bustling city.

History and etymology of obscure

The adjective 'obscure' traces its origins back to Latin, primarily from the word 'obscurus,' which means 'dark' or 'dim.' In its original Latin form, it was used to describe physical darkness or dimness. Over time, it evolved to also convey a sense of metaphorical darkness, referring to something that is unclear, hidden from view, or difficult to understand. The term 'obscure' captures this idea of opacity and lack of clarity, often attributed to a scarcity of information or the concealment of knowledge. Therefore, etymologically, 'obscure' signifies a state of being unclear or perplexing, typically due to a lack of illumination or hidden aspects.

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Further usage examples of obscure

1. The obscure language of the manuscript required translation by experts.
2. He found solace in obscure books, relishing their hidden wisdom.
3. The obscure legend told of a lost treasure buried deep in the mountains.
4. The obscure clues led the detective on a labyrinthine investigation.
5. Her obscure motives for the sudden departure left everyone bewildered.
6. In the obscure corners of the internet, bizarre subcultures thrive.
7. The scientist made an obscure discovery that reshaped our understanding.
8. An obscure figure emerged from the shadows, casting an eerie presence.
9. The obscure symbol on the map marked the location of buried treasure.
10. Their obscure music genre attracted a dedicated but small following.
11. The obscure film gained a cult following long after its release.
12. An obscure illness baffled doctors until a breakthrough diagnosis.
13. The obscure details of the contract raised suspicions among investors.
14. He embarked on a journey to explore obscure destinations off the beaten path.
15. The meaning of her words was obscure to me.
16. He has an obscure way of speaking that confuses everyone.
17. The film was made by an obscure director that no one has heard of.
18. The museum has an exhibit of obscure artifacts from ancient civilizations.
19. The path through the woods is obscure and hard to follow.
20. The painting's meaning remains obscure despite numerous interpretations.
21. The recipe called for an obscure ingredient that I couldn't find anywhere.
22. The band played an obscure song from their early days that few people recognized.
23. The company specializes in selling obscure books and rare manuscripts.
24. Her past remains obscure, and no one knows where she came from.
25. The meaning of the poem is obscure, and scholars have debated its interpretation for years.

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