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obfuscatory

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌɒb.fəˈskeɪ.tər.i/

KK: /ˈɑb.fəˌskeɪ.tɔːr.i/

adjective
Definition

This word describes something that makes things unclear or confusing, often to hide the truth.


Example

The lawyer's obfuscatory language made it difficult for the jury to understand the case.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you read that article about the new policy changes?
Sloth B
Yeah, but I found it a bit obfuscatory and confusing.
Sloth A
Right? It seemed like they were trying to hide something with all that jargon.
Sloth B
Exactly! Clear communication would have been so much better.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
confusing
ambiguous
vague
Antonyms
clear
explicit
straightforward
Root Explanation

Obfuscatory → It is formed from "ob-" (meaning against or over) and "fuscus" (meaning dark). The word "obfuscatory" refers to something that makes things unclear or darkens understanding.

Memory Tip

Think of something that makes things 'dark' or 'unclear' ('fuscus') and 'against' ('ob-') clarity — that's why obfuscatory means making something confusing.

Visually Confused Words
obsecratory
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