Definition

Difficult or impossible to understand; not clear enough to be comprehended.

Example

The teacher's handwriting was so messy that it was unintelligible to the students.

Conversation

Did you understand what the professor said in class today?

Honestly, it was so unintelligible that I just zoned out.

Right? I felt the same way; it was like he was speaking another language.

Exactly! I wish he would simplify his explanations for us.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unintelligible → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "intelligere" (meaning to understand). The word describes something that cannot be understood or is not comprehensible.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'understand' ('intelligere') — that's why unintelligible means something that cannot be understood.

Visually Confused Words