WordValeobfuscate
to make deliberately unclear
In more detail
1. (verb) to make something unclear or confusing on purpose
2. (verb) to make code or writing difficult to understand by changing it intentionally
Examples
- 1. The politician tried to obfuscate the truth by giving vague answers.
- 2. Programmers sometimes obfuscate their code to protect it from being copied.
How to use obfuscate
Obfuscate is used when something is made deliberately unclear or hard to understand, often implying intentional deception or obscuring. It differs from synonyms like 'confuse' by emphasizing purposeful action rather than accidental unclear communication. In technical contexts, it specifically refers to making code unreadable through transformation; in general use, it suggests intentionally hiding truth or meaning.
Common phrases
- obfuscate the truth
- obfuscate the issue
- obfuscate code
- deliberately obfuscate
- obfuscate the meaning
Synonyms
obscure · confuse · muddle · complicate · cloud
Opposites
clarify · elucidate · simplify
Word family
obfuscation (noun) · obfuscatory (adjective) · obfuscated (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use 'obfuscate' when they simply mean something is confusing by accident rather than on purpose; the word requires intentional action to make something unclear.
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