opaque - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
opaque Word Meanings
- not able to be seen through; not transparent
- difficult to understand
- not letting light pass through.
opaque Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
opaque Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əʊˈpeɪk/
US
/oʊˈpeɪk/
opaque Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'ob-' (against) + 'lucere' (to shine). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a thick fog blocking the sunlight, making everything hidden and unclear.
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
Opaque describes something that does not let light pass through, such as thick glass or dense fog. It also refers to ideas, arguments, or explanations that are hard to understand or not clearly expressed. In everyday speech, you might say a policy is opaque if its rules are unclear or inconsistent. The word appears in technical contexts too: an opaque material blocks visibility in an experiment, and an opaque interface hides internal details from the user. Etymology traces to Latin ob- 'against' and lucere 'to shine,' passing through Old French into English. Opaque contrasts with transparent or clear, and figurative uses often pair with be, seem, or look to describe communication and reasoning.
Usage Reminders
- Think of something that blocks light; use with literal objects.
- Use with ideas or explanations to mean unclear.
- Prefer be/appear when using in a metaphorical sense.
- Contrast with transparent/clear.
- Avoid describing people as opaque in everyday English.
- Pair with a noun such as 'system' or 'glass'.
Common Misconceptions
- Opaque ≠ dark; it refers to blocking light or clarity, not color.
- Do not use opaque to mean secret or covert; use such terms as secretive instead.
- Obscure and opaque are related but not the same; obscure emphasizes vagueness, opaque emphasizes blockage.
- Avoid applying opaque to people; it's usually about objects, ideas, or processes.
- Opaque can describe both physical materials and abstract explanations; avoid one-way thinking.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker how opaque covers both the physical sense (blocking light) and the figurative sense (not easily understood). Note that opaque often signals stronger blockage than merely 'not clear' and is common with materials, policies, or explanations.
Learning Tips
- memorize the three core senses: blocking light, blocking visibility, and being hard to understand
- contrast opaque with transparent to sharpen nuance
- practice with both literal objects (glass) and abstract ideas (policies)
- avoid describing people as opaque; use for objects, texts, or systems
- check collocations: opaque material, opaque argument, opaque bureaucracy
- watch for synonyms: obscure (vague) vs opaque (blocked visibility)
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'opaque'?
A.Not able to be seen through
B.Partially transparent
C.Clear
D.Reflective
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'opaque' correctly?
A.The glass was transparent, allowing light to pass through easily.
B.The mirror was so clear that it reflected everything perfectly.
C.The opaque curtain blocked all sunlight from entering the room.
D.The window was partially translucent, creating a blurry view outside.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'opaque'?
A.Transparent
B.Translucent
C.Opaque
D.Clear
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what situation would you describe something as 'opaque'?
A.A clean window allowing sunlight to filter through
B.A thick curtain blocking all light
C.A see-through plastic bottle
D.A foggy mirror after a hot shower
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'opaque' in a sentence?
A.The opaque water in the pond made it impossible to see the fish.
B.The glass was too clear to be opaque.
C.The sky appeared opaque due to the heavy fog.
D.The painting on the wall was as opaque as a mirror.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App