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blurred
/blɜːrd/
out of focus
The photo was so blurred that I couldn't recognize anyone.
The image lacked clarity, making details indistinguishable.
general
not clear or distinct; lacking sharpness or focus
Her vision became blurred as she read the small print.
She struggled to see the text clearly.
The boundaries between the two concepts are blurred.
The distinction between them is unclear.
Often used literally for vision or images, and figuratively for abstract concepts.
figurative
unclear or confused in meaning
The rules of the game were intentionally blurred to confuse players.
The guidelines were intentionally vague.
Common in discussions about rules, guidelines, or distinctions.
Collocations
blurred visionlack of sharpness in sightblurred linesunclear distinctionsblurred memoryfuzzy or unclear recollection
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'blurred'
While 'blurred' is useful, consider alternatives like 'fuzzy,' 'vague,' or 'hazy' depending on the context to avoid repetition.
Gold Rule
Literal vs. Figurative Use
Use 'blurred' literally for vision or images (e.g., 'blurred photo'). Use it figuratively for abstract concepts (e.g., 'blurred lines between work and life').
Word Origin
From the past participle of 'blur' (late 16th century), meaning 'to make dim or indistinct.' Origin uncertain, possibly imitative of a quick movement.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both literal (vision, images) and figurative (ideas, rules) contexts. Often paired with 'vision,' 'image,' 'memory,' or 'distinction.'
Word Breakdown
blur
to make indistinct
root-ed
past participle suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary