obscure - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
obscure Word Meanings
- not well known or unclear
- to make something difficult to see
- to hide or cover something
obscure Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
obscure Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əbˈskjʊə/
US
/əbˈskjʊr/
obscure Word Etymology
Latin 'obscurus' (dark, unknown) → Old French 'obscur' → English. Imagine a darkened room where you struggle to see—everything is obscured and hidden.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Obscure is a versatile word describing things that are not well known, unclear, or hard to understand. As an adjective, it can refer to people, places, or ideas that have little public recognition or that resist easy explanation. As a verb, it means to hide or cover something, either physically or figuratively, so that it cannot be seen or understood clearly. You might hear about an obscure artist, obscure details in a report, or fog obscuring a distant skyline. The nuance ranges from merely unfamiliar to deliberately concealed. Learners often confuse obscure with vague or ambiguous, but obscurity usually implies some form of concealment or partial obscurity, not just lack of precision.
Usage Reminders
- Obscure is used for things not well known or not clearly understood.
- As a verb, it means to hide or make something difficult to see or understand.
- Do not use obscure for minor unclear details; use vague or unclear instead.
- Common collocations include obscure detail, obscure reference, or obscure meaning.
- In formal writing, consider whether concealment is intended or merely a visibility issue.
Common Misconceptions
- Obscure means the same as secret
- Obscure only describes people who are mysterious
- Obscure is a formal synonym for unclear
- Obscure always implies intentional hiding
- You can use obscure to mean merely vague
Thinking Differences
In English, obscure often carries a sense of being not just unclear but sometimes intentionally hidden, especially in formal or academic contexts.
Learning Tips
- Learn both senses (not well known vs hide or cover).
- Pair with nouns like detail, reference, or meaning.
- Distinguish concealment from mere lack of clarity.
- Watch for contexts with metaphorical hiding (truth, motives).
- Replace with vague or unclear when you want milder uncertainty.
- Practice with real-world articles to see nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'obscure'?
A.Obvious
B.Clear
C.Bright
D.Mysterious
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'obscure' used correctly?
A.The sun is too obscure today.
B.The teacher explained the lesson clearly and obscurely.
C.The path was well-lit and obscure.
D.The meaning of the poem was obscure to me.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'obscure'?
A.Evident
B.Clear
C.Conceal
D.Expose
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'obscure'?
A.Transparent
B.Ambiguous
C.Vague
D.Clouded
Step 5: Mastery
In which situation would 'obscure' be appropriately used?
A.The bright neon sign was obscure against the dark night sky.
B.The colorful flowers in the garden were clear and easy to see.
C.A dense fog made the road obscure and dangerous to navigate.
D.The chef's recipe was evident and well-known to everyone.
Related Listening
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