명확하다 (myeong-hwak-ha-da, myeonghwakhada) · 애매하다 (ae-mae-ha-da, aemaehada)
명확하다 and 애매하다 express clarity and ambiguity respectively, used for definite and uncertain expressions.
One lane per word — no nested boxes, just the gist.
An adjective describing a state of being clear and definite
When to use
explaining results, giving instructions, providing information, basis for judgment
The nuance
Use 명확하다 when communication or a situation is clear and leaves no room for confusion.
An adjective describing a state of being unclear, vague, or uncertain
When to use
expressing feelings, undecided decisions, in-between state, vague answers
The nuance
Use 애매하다 when a situation or expression is uncertain or confusing, making clear judgment difficult.
이 설명은 매우 명확하다.
i seol-myeong-eun mae-u myeong-hwak-ha-da., i seol myeong eun mae u myeong hwak ha da.
The explanation is clear and easy to understand, so 명확하다 is appropriate.
이 설명은 매우 애매하다.
i seol-myeong-eun mae-u ae-mae-ha-da., i seol myeong eun mae u ae mae ha da.
If the explanation is clear, using 애매하다 is incorrect; 명확하다 should be used.
그의 의도가 명확하다.
geu-ui ui-do-ga myeong-hwak-ha-da., geu ui ui do ga myeong hwak ha da.
If the intention is clear and explicit, use 명확하다.
회의 결과가 명확하다.
hoe-ui gyeol-gwa-ga myeong-hwak-ha-da., hoe ui gyeol gwa ga myeong hwak ha da.
Use 명확하다 when meeting results are definite and clear.
지시가 애매하지 않다.
ji-si-ga ae-mae-ha-ji an-da., ji si ga ae mae ha ji an da.
애매하지 않다 is unnatural; use 명확하지 않다 instead.
In which situation should you use '명확하다'?
Which sentence correctly uses '애매하다'?
Which expression cannot replace '명확하지 않다'?
