murky time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "murky time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period that is unclear, confusing, or difficult to understand, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "During the murky time of the pandemic, many people struggled to find clarity in their daily lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It's a troubling, murky ballet, fit for a troubled, murky time.

The New York Times - Arts

As a consequence it was only a mildly murky time spent in Morgan and Davidson's company.

The Guardian

This is a murky time in Israel, a time of softening Israeli confidence in the Israeli government, but none at all in the intentions of Yasir Arafat, the Palestinian leader.

The New York Times

During this morketiden, or "murky time", the main reason for visiting Tromso is to try to see the northern lights – try being the operative word since, as Knut explains, "Aurora is a difficult lady: she'll only come out when she feels like it".

Independent

You were an idea, a possibility, in an otherwise murky time.

Huffington Post

I think it's incredible that in that otherwise fairly murky time, people were able to build the Roundtable in Poland.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

They tend to see the primary market as murky, time-consuming and hierarchical.

The Economist

Above all, his light was clean and transparent, a far cry from Rembrandt's murky, time-freezing atmospheres.

The New York Times - Arts

So what is a start-up to do in these murky times?

The New York Times

And a lighthouse in these difficult, murky times for the sport.

The Guardian - Sport

The judiciary, however, has largely kept its independence through these murky times.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "murky time" to describe periods in history, politics, or personal experiences when events are unclear, and outcomes are uncertain. It is particularly effective when conveying a sense of confusion or unease.

Common error

Avoid using "murky time" to describe everyday situations that are merely slightly confusing. Save it for instances where the lack of clarity has significant consequences or creates a strong sense of disorientation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "murky time" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "murky" modifies the noun "time". Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It describes a period characterized by a lack of clarity, confusion, or obscurity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "murky time" is used to describe periods lacking clarity or filled with confusion, as Ludwig's analysis and examples demonstrate. It is grammatically correct and primarily found in news and media contexts. While useful for conveying uncertainty, it should be reserved for situations where the lack of clarity is significant. Alternatives such as "unclear period" or "uncertain times" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to express. Ludwig AI validates the phrase's correctness and provides real-world examples that help clarify its usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unclear period

Emphasizes the lack of clarity during the specified time.

uncertain times

Focuses on the lack of certainty and predictability.

ambiguous time

Highlights the multiple possible interpretations during the period.

confused period

Emphasizes the feeling of confusion and disorientation.

obscure era

Implies a lack of transparency or understanding of the time.

turbulent times

Highlights the instability and unrest during the time.

difficult period

Focuses on the challenges and hardships experienced.

unsettled period

Emphasizes the lack of stability and peace.

opaque times

Focuses on the lack of transparency and easy understanding.

shadowy era

Suggests hidden or sinister aspects of the time.

FAQs

How can I use "murky time" in a sentence?

You can use "murky time" to describe a period characterized by confusion, uncertainty, or lack of clarity. For example, "The early days of the pandemic were a "murky time" for many businesses."

What can I say instead of "murky time"?

You can use alternatives like "unclear period", "uncertain times", or "ambiguous time" depending on the context.

Is "murky time" a formal or informal expression?

"Murky time" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for use in news articles, essays, and other forms of writing where a descriptive but not overly colloquial term is needed.

What makes a "murky time" different from a "difficult time"?

While a "difficult time" implies hardship and struggle, a "murky time" emphasizes a lack of clarity and understanding. A situation can be both, but the focus is on the lack of clear information and direction when using ""murky time"".