partially obscure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "partially obscure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not completely clear or is somewhat hidden from view or understanding. Example: "The meaning of the poem is partially obscure, leaving readers to interpret it in various ways."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Those pillars partially obscure the view: that is irritating but it also makes a point.

The Guardian

The images are gorgeous, postcard-perfect, save for the black bars that partially obscure the frame.

The New Yorker

This process effectively removes persistent clay-sized particles that may partially obscure important features of the test.

University of California, Berkeley

Someone should have used it to work out that, when lying in bed, the large chairs at the foot of it partially obscure the TV.

The Guardian - Travel

In recent months, the company has decided to stop selling three men's magazines it said were too racy and to partially obscure the covers of four women's magazines on sale in checkout lines.

The New York Times

In one telling sign of how far Iraq is sliding into Iran's orbit, giant billboards advertising the militias' prowess and featuring portraits of Iran's late Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini and his successor as supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, now partially obscure the plinth in central Baghdad where Saddam Hussein's statue stood before U.S. Marines tore it down in 2003.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The tower partially obscures a rose window.

Yale University

But the main objection is that the pastiche partially obscures the voice.

The Guardian - Books

White ammonia haze covers the whole planet and partially obscures redder clouds below.

Cornell University

Its upright element is bent, and the sign itself is partially obscured by a tree.

The New Yorker

It helped that so many of the class disparities between us had been partially obscured.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "partially obscure", ensure the context clarifies what is causing the obscuration and to what extent the subject is hidden or unclear. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "partially obscure" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal writing. Opt for more precise language that specifies the nature and degree of obscuration for greater impact and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "partially obscure" functions as a modifier, specifically an adverb ("partially") modifying a verb ("obscure"). Ludwig shows that it's used to describe the degree to which something is hidden or unclear.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

31%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "partially obscure" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes something being not entirely clear or visible. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. It functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating a degree of obstruction or concealment. While prevalent in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, its register is considered neutral, making it suitable for a variety of writing styles. When using this phrase, ensure the context clarifies what causes the obscuration to enhance clarity. Alternatives like "partially hide" or "partly conceal" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

partially hide

A more direct synonym, emphasizing the act of making something less visible.

partly conceal

Focuses more on the act of hiding something, differing slightly in emphasis from merely obstructing view or understanding.

partly veil

Suggests a more delicate or subtle form of obscuring, often used metaphorically.

partially block

Emphasizes the obstruction of a pathway or view, rather than conceptual clarity.

partially mask

Implies covering something to change its appearance or prevent recognition.

shadow partially

Suggests casting a shadow over something, making it less prominent.

dim slightly

Focuses on reducing the brightness or clarity, altering the perception rather than fully concealing.

cloud partially

Suggests to make unclear or less transparent.

fog partially

Refers to an act of covering or enveloping in fog.

murkify partially

Adding murkiness to something, usually in order to make it darker and less clear.

FAQs

How can I use "partially obscure" in a sentence?

You can use "partially obscure" to describe something that is not completely clear or visible. For example, "The fog "partially obscured" the bridge from view".

What are some alternatives to "partially obscure"?

Some alternatives include "partially hide", "partly conceal", or "slightly dim", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "partially obscure" or "completely obscure"?

The choice depends on the degree of obscuration. Use "partially obscure" when something is only partly hidden or unclear, and "completely obscure" when it is entirely hidden or incomprehensible.

What does it mean when something is "partially obscured"?

It means that something is not fully visible, clear, or understood. The view, meaning, or clarity is blocked to some extent, but not entirely.