unintelligible - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
unintelligible Word Meanings
- not able to be understood
- incomprehensible
- difficult to make sense of
unintelligible Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
unintelligible Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ʌn.ɪnˈtɛl.ɪ.dʒə.bəl/
US
/ˌʌn.ɪnˈtɛl.ɪ.dʒə.bəl/
unintelligible Word Etymology
The word 'unintelligible' is formed from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not', and the root 'intelligible' from Latin 'intelligibilis', derived from 'intelligere' (to understand). To visualize, imagine trying to decipher a jumbled code or a foreign language where nothing makes sense, making the content impossible to comprehend.
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
Unintelligible describes speech or writing that cannot be understood at all, or is very hard to comprehend. It often arises when ideas are expressed in a way that is unclear, when a foreign language is spoken rapidly, when handwriting is illegible, or when technical jargon creates a barrier. In everyday use, you might say a recording is unintelligible because of poor sound quality, or a note is unintelligible because it uses abbreviations and symbols. The word emphasizes the failure of comprehension, rather than simply being difficult to comprehend; it suggests that the listener cannot extract meaning despite effort.
Usage Reminders
- Remember to use unintelligible for total lack of understanding
- Compare with incomprehensible when you want to stress the absence of meaning
- Apply to speech, writing, or recordings that are unclear or noisy
- Think about whether the barrier is linguistic, technical, or cognitive
- Avoid overusing in everyday talk when you simply disagree with something unclear
- Check the context to decide if the issue lies with the speaker or the content
Common Misconceptions
- It means the speaker is stupid or careless.
- It can be used for every kind of confusion, no matter how minor.
- It’s the same as 'incomprehensible'.
- It only applies to spoken language.
- It refers to the reader’s lack of intelligence.
Thinking Differences
In English, unintelligible often accompanies talk about complete lack of understanding due to sound quality, handwriting, or opaque wording; it stresses the outcome. Learners may confuse it with 'incomprehensible' or apply it to mild confusion. Clarify that unintelligible is about the impossibility of extracting meaning rather than merely missing a single idea.
Learning Tips
- Learn the exact nuance between unintelligible and incomprehensible
- Practice listening to fast, clipped speech
- Work with unclear handwriting to identify why it’s hard to read
- Rewrite a sentence into clear, understandable language
- Notice whether the barrier is linguistic, technical, or cognitive
- Use the word to describe a clear failure to derive meaning
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'unintelligible'?
A.Not able to be understood
B.Able to be understood clearly
C.Clear and concise
D.Highly articulate
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'unintelligible' correctly?
A.The contract was unintelligible to anyone who read it.
B.His explanation was unintelligible because it was very clear.
C.The painting was unintelligible and easy to interpret.
D.Her singing was unintelligible, yet beautiful.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'unintelligible'?
A.Lucid
B.Articulate
C.Muddled
D.Expressive
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'unintelligible'?
A.Confusing
B.Clear
C.Obscure
D.Ambiguous
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something might be described as 'unintelligible'?
A.The instructions were too clear and straightforward.
B.The lecture was hard to follow due to the speaker's heavy accent.
C.He wrote a response that was easy to read and understand.
D.The movie's plot was straightforward and captivating.
Related Listening
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