What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hidden
Example
The treasure was hidden in a secret location. [hidden: adjective]
Example
She tried to keep her emotions hidden from her friends. [hidden: past participle]
obscure
Example
The author's early works are relatively obscure. [obscure: adjective]
Example
The meaning of the poem was obscure and hard to decipher. [obscure: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hidden is more commonly used than obscure in everyday language. Hidden is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while obscure is less common and usually used in specific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between hidden and obscure?
Both hidden and obscure can be used in formal and informal contexts, but obscure may be more formal due to its less frequent usage.
