Translation guide
The English word "obscure" has several distinct meanings: not well-known, hard to understand, or to block/hide. This guide breaks down these meanings and provides natural Japanese equivalents for each.
Describing something that is not famous, not widely known, or known only to a few people.
an obscure artist · an obscure village · an obscure reference
Literally 'no name', used for people, artists, or works that are unknown or not famous.
He is an obscure painter.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'not known'. Very common and natural.
That village is quite obscure.
Loanword from English 'minor', used for things that are not mainstream, niche, or obscure. Common in casual contexts.
This band is still obscure.
Attributive form of 無名, used directly before nouns.
I read a book by an obscure writer.
Adverb meaning 'without being known by others', often used for actions done in obscurity or secretly. More literary.
He continued his efforts in obscurity.
Describing language, ideas, or explanations that are unclear, vague, or difficult to comprehend.
an obscure explanation · obscure language · the meaning is obscure
Means 'vague' or 'ambiguous'. Commonly used for unclear statements or meanings.
His explanation was obscure.
Literally 'hard to understand'. A very natural and common phrase.
Means 'difficult to understand' or 'esoteric'. Often used for complex theories or texts.
Means 'unclear' or 'indistinct'. More formal and often used in written contexts.
To cover something so that it cannot be seen clearly, or to make something difficult to perceive.
Clouds obscured the sun. · The view was obscured by fog. · Trees obscure the entrance.
Means 'to block' or 'to obstruct'. Used for physical objects blocking light, view, or sound.
Clouds obscured the sun.
Means 'to cover up and hide'. Emphasizes completely hiding something from view.
A phrase meaning 'to make invisible' or 'to block from sight'. Simple and clear.
That sign obscures the view.
General word for 'to hide'. Can be used when something is intentionally or unintentionally hidden.
曖昧 (aimai) only means 'vague' or 'ambiguous' in the sense of unclear meaning. It cannot be used for physical obstruction like clouds blocking the sun. Use 遮る (saegiru) or 覆い隠す (ooikakusu) instead.
無名 (mumei) is a more formal, written word meaning 'unknown' or 'nameless'. マイナー (mainaa) is a casual loanword meaning 'minor' or 'niche'. Use 無名 for serious contexts like an unknown artist in history, and マイナー for everyday talk about bands or hobbies.
He worked in obscurity for years.
人知れず captures the sense of working without recognition.
This passage is obscure.
その哲学書は難解だ。
That philosophy book is obscure.
The wording of the contract is obscure.
Fog obscured the mountains.
He obscured his face with his hands.