Meaning
模糊 describes something that lacks clarity or sharp definition, whether physically (like a blurry photo) or conceptually (like a vague idea). It can function as an adjective meaning 'blurry' or 'vague,' or as a verb meaning 'to blur' or 'to obscure.' The word conveys the sense that boundaries, details, or meanings are indistinct or hard to discern.
Usage
Native speakers use 模糊 in both concrete contexts (blurry vision, unclear images) and abstract ones (vague memories, ambiguous concepts). It commonly appears with 不清 (bù qīng) as 模糊不清 for emphasis. The word carries a neutral tone and can describe both intentional ambiguity and unintentional lack of clarity.
Examples
- 01这张照片太模糊了，看不清楚人的脸。, .This photo is too blurry; you can't see people's faces clearly.
- 02他对那天发生的事情记忆很模糊。.His memory of what happened that day is very vague.
Characters
Common collocations
- 模糊不清blurry and unclear
- 视线模糊blurred vision
- 记忆模糊vague memory
- 概念模糊vague concept
Antonyms
Origin
The character 糊 originally referred to paste or something sticky, which metaphorically extends to things that are muddled or stuck together without clear separation. Combined with 模 (pattern/form), the compound suggests a pattern or form that has become indistinct.