the state of being unknown, inconspicuous, or unimportant, the quality of being difficult to understand

Formal and Informal Expressions of obscurity

In different contexts, you can replace 'obscurity' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'ambiguity, opacity' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'mystery, vagueness' is a commonplace synonym.

obscurity: Explore its Definition & Usage

obscurity Definition

1the state of being unknown, inconspicuous, or unimportant
2the quality of being difficult to understand

Using obscurity: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "obscurity" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The author's work fell into obscurity after his death.
Example
The details of the incident remain shrouded in obscurity.
Example
The meaning of the poem is lost in obscurity.
Example
The band never achieved anything beyond obscurity.

obscurity Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for obscurity

Antonyms for obscurity

Phrases with obscurity

fade into obscurity
to become gradually less well-known and eventually forgotten
Example
After the scandal, the politician faded into obscurity.
plunge into obscurity
to suddenly become unknown or forgotten
Example
The once-popular singer plunged into obscurity after her last album failed to sell.
emerge from obscurity
to become known or famous after a period of being unknown
Example
The young actor emerged from obscurity to become a Hollywood star.

Origins of obscurity

from Latin 'obscuritas', meaning 'darkness'

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Summary: obscurity in Brief

The term 'obscurity' [əbˈskjʊərɪti] refers to the state of being unknown, unimportant, or difficult to understand. It can describe a lack of clarity or fame, as in 'The author's work fell into obscurity after his death.' Phrases like 'fade into obscurity' and 'plunge into obscurity' describe the process of becoming forgotten, while 'emerge from obscurity' describes becoming famous after a period of being unknown.