CRYPTIC Synonyms: 143 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'cryptic' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of cryptic are ambiguous , dark , enigmatic , equivocal , obscure , and vague . While all these words mean "not clearly understandable," cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning. // cryptic hints of hidden treasure

Q: When is it sensible to use 'ambiguous' instead of 'cryptic'?

While the synonyms ambiguous and cryptic are close in meaning, ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation. // an ambiguous directive

Q: In what contexts can 'dark' take the place of 'cryptic'?

The words dark and cryptic can be used in similar contexts, but dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion. // muttered dark hints of revenge

Q: When might 'enigmatic' be a better fit than 'cryptic'?

The words enigmatic and cryptic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality. // enigmatic occult writings

Q: When can 'equivocal' be used instead of 'cryptic'?

Although the words equivocal and cryptic have much in common, equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading. // moral precepts with equivocal phrasing

Q: When would 'obscure' be a good substitute for 'cryptic'?

While in some cases nearly identical to cryptic , obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge. // obscure poems

Q: When could 'vague' be used to replace 'cryptic'?

The synonyms vague and cryptic are sometimes interchangeable, but vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration. // a vague sense of obligation

cryptic

adjective

ˈkrip-tik

Definition of cryptic next

as in mysterious

being beyond one's powers to know, understand, or explain puzzled by the cryptic e-mail message left on his computer

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in ambiguous

having an often intentionally veiled or uncertain meaning the oracle offered only cryptic predictions that could be interpreted any number of different ways

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word cryptic different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of cryptic are ambiguous, dark, enigmatic, equivocal, obscure, and vague. While all these words mean "not clearly understandable," cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning.

cryptic hints of hidden treasure

When is it sensible to use ambiguous instead of cryptic?

While the synonyms ambiguous and cryptic are close in meaning, ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation.

an ambiguous directive

In what contexts can dark take the place of cryptic?

The words dark and cryptic can be used in similar contexts, but dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion.

muttered dark hints of revenge

When might enigmatic be a better fit than cryptic?

The words enigmatic and cryptic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality.

enigmatic occult writings

When can equivocal be used instead of cryptic?

Although the words equivocal and cryptic have much in common, equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading.

moral precepts with equivocal phrasing

When would obscure be a good substitute for cryptic?

While in some cases nearly identical to cryptic, obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge.

obscure poems

When could vague be used to replace cryptic?

The synonyms vague and cryptic are sometimes interchangeable, but vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration.

a vague sense of obligation

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of cryptic The cryptic response from Sirianni is worrisome, especially since the Eagles are preparing to make a deep playoff run. —

Dan Perry, Newsweek, 3 Jan. 2025 And with the help of their shy, flora-loving neighbour, Gabe, and his sister, Sam, a geologist who is driving back to college in Arizona, Zed and company are soon off on a wild adventure following cryptic clues. —

Madeline Mitchell, The Enquirer, 26 Dec. 2024 Hill spoke to the media following the loss, offering cryptic responses about the future of his playing for the Dolphins. —

Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 6 Jan. 2025 On Monday, the actor shared a cryptic post on his Instagram about his decision to pass on the role of Neo in the original Matrix with a few interesting questions. —

Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone, 6 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for cryptic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cryptic

Adjective

The groundbreaking find, the researchers claim, could reshape our understanding of the universe and its most powerful and mysterious signals.

— Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 27 Jan. 2025
Several years later, Hoffa disappeared under mysterious circumstances and was never seen again.

— David Wharton, Los Angeles Times, 27 Jan. 2025