Nebulous (Adjective)

Meaning ¹

Of or relating to or resembling a nebula; "the nebular hypothesis of the origin of the solar system".

Classification

Relational adjectives (pertainyms).

Examples

• The nebulous gas cloud collapsed under its own gravity, eventually forming a new star.
• Her memories of the event were nebulous, fragmented and difficult to piece together.
• The concept of dark matter is still somewhat nebulous, with scientists struggling to define its properties.
• The artist's use of soft, swirling brushstrokes created a nebulous, dreamlike quality in the painting.
• The origins of the ancient civilization were shrouded in a nebulous mixture of myth and legend.

Synonyms

• Nebular

Related Words

• Nebula (noun)

Meaning ²

Lacking definite form or limits; "gropes among cloudy issues toward a feeble conclusion"- H.T.Moore; "nebulous distinction between pride and conceit".

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Examples

• The scientist's theory on the origins of the universe was still nebulous and required further research and experimentation.
• Her memories of childhood were nebulous and fragmented, making it difficult to piece together her past.
• The distinction between a hobby and an obsession can be nebulous, and it often takes an outsider to point out the difference.
• The artist's latest sculpture was meant to evoke a sense of emotion, but its nebulous meaning left many viewers confused.
• The politician's promise to create new jobs was nebulous and short on specifics, leading many voters to question its feasibility.

Synonyms

• Cloudy
• Nebulose

Meaning ³

Lacking definition or definite content; "nebulous reasons"; "unfixed as were her general notions of what men ought to be"- Jane Austen.

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Examples

• The politician's promises sounded good, but they remained nebulous and lacked any real substance.
• Her nebulous memories of childhood made it difficult for her to recall specific details.
• The concept of happiness is often nebulous and can mean different things to different people.
• The teacher tried to give a clear definition, but the students found her explanation to be nebulous and confusing.
• The artist's statement about the meaning behind her latest sculpture was nebulous, leaving many to interpret it in their own way.

Synonyms

• Unfixed