Opaque Meaning: Definition, Examples and Opaque Language

Opaque (adjective). Opaque describes a material that blocks light, or language and ideas that are difficult to understand.

Example: The instructions were so opaque that we could not work out which form to complete.

Pronunciation guide: oh-PAYK. Capital letters show the stressed syllable.

Explore the usage · Try the three-question quiz · Keep learning

What does opaque mean?

There are two useful senses. A solid wooden door is opaque because light does not pass through it. An opaque explanation is difficult to follow: you cannot easily see what the speaker means.

Ask what the adjective describes. With a physical material, think about light. With writing, rules or decisions, think about understanding. An opaque process might have unclear steps or reasons; the word alone does not prove that anyone is being dishonest.

Opaque, translucent and transparent

• Opaque: blocks light. Example: a metal lid.
• Translucent: allows some light through but does not give a clear view. Example: frosted glass that glows when a lamp is behind it.
• Transparent: lets you see clearly through it. Example: a clean, clear window.

Privacy glass is not automatically opaque. If it lets light through while blurring objects, translucent is the more precise word in this comparison.

What is opaque language?

Opaque language hides the meaning behind unfamiliar words, complicated sentences or missing information. It may be deliberately obscure or simply poorly explained.

Opaque: “Access will be facilitated upon procedural completion.”
Clearer: “You can sign in after you complete the form.”

To make a sentence clearer, name the person acting, use a specific verb and say what happens next. Technical vocabulary can be necessary, but readers need enough explanation to understand it.

Opaque in a sentence and related forms

• The thick cardboard was opaque, so we could not see the drawing behind it.
• Students asked the writer to simplify an opaque paragraph.
• The selection process remained opaque because nobody explained the criteria.
• The editor replaced the opaque wording with a direct instruction.

Opacity and opaqueness are nouns. Opaquely is an adverb: “The rule was opaquely worded.” For language, unclear or obscure may be alternatives; clear and understandable express the opposite. Choose a synonym that fits the sense, rather than replacing every occurrence mechanically.

Practise opaque: three quick questions

Try each question before opening its answer. If a question asks you to write a sentence, your own correct example is welcome.

Question 1

A panel lets light through but makes objects look blurred. Is it opaque or translucent?

Question 2

Does “an opaque explanation” mean an explanation written in dark ink?

Question 3

Rewrite “Submit documentation subsequent to approval” in clearer language.

Keep learning

Watch How to Pronounce Opaque by Julien Miquel on YouTube.

Compare these words next: Garrulous meaning and practice and Astute meaning and practice.

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Dictionary reference: Merriam-Webster: Opaque. The examples and practice questions on this page are written for English Skill Studio.