Tricky Words in English

Having multiple meanings or interpretations; unclear or vague

The politician’s ambiguous statement left journalists puzzled about his stance on the issue.

A confusing or difficult problem or question; a dilemma.

Solving the conundrum of how to balance work and personal life is a challenge for many professionals.

Lasting for a very short time; fleeting or transient.

The beauty of the cherry blossoms is ephemeral, lasting only a few weeks each spring.

Beyond doubt or question; unquestionable or indisputable.

The scientific evidence supporting climate change is indubitable.

To deliberately make something unclear or confusing; to obscure or bewilder.

The politician’s evasive answers obfuscated the true nature of the issue.

Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way; destructive or damaging.

The pernicious effects of smoking on health are well-documented.

Exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic or impractical.

His quixotic quest for perfection often led to disappointment.

Tending to induce drowsiness or sleep; causing boredom or dullness.

The professor’s monotone voice had a soporific effect on the students during the lecture.

Present, appearing, or found everywhere; widespread or omnipresent.

Smartphones have become ubiquitous in modern society.

The defining spirit or mood of a particular period of history as shown by the ideas and beliefs of the time.

The music of the 1960s captured the zeitgeist of the era with its messages of social change and revolution.