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obfuscation

noun

/ˌɒbfʌsˈkeɪʃən/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of obfuscation

The act or process of deliberately making something unclear, confusing, or difficult to understand.
"The writer's use of obfuscation in their novel added an element of mystery and intrigue."

Detailed meaning of obfuscation

It involves intentionally obscuring information, ideas, or concepts, often with the intention to deceive or mislead others. Obfuscation can take various forms, such as using complex language, convoluted explanations, or intentionally withholding important details. It can be employed for various purposes, including to evade responsibility, conceal the truth, or create a sense of ambiguity. Obfuscation can occur in various contexts, such as politics, legal matters, or technical fields. By deliberately muddying the waters, obfuscation hinders comprehension, making it challenging for individuals to grasp the true meaning or implications of a situation. It is seen as a hindrance to transparency, clarity, and effective communication, often leaving individuals feeling perplexed or manipulated.

Example sentences containing obfuscation

1. His speech was pure obfuscation, leaving the audience more puzzled than informed.
2. Obfuscation in law texts can lead to misinterpretation and injustice.
3. The writer's obfuscation muddled the plot, confusing eager readers.
4. Obfuscation techniques make code harder to read and decipher.
5. Data obfuscation helps in protecting sensitive information.
6. Political obfuscation is a tactic to confuse voters.

History and etymology of obfuscation

The noun 'obfuscation' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'obfuscare,' which means 'to darken' or 'to obscure.' It is formed from the prefix 'ob-' meaning 'against' or 'over,' and 'fuscare,' derived from 'fuscus,' meaning 'dark' or 'dusky.' Therefore, the etymology of 'obfuscation' revolves around the concept of intentionally making something unclear, confusing, or difficult to understand by figuratively casting a shadow over it or veiling it in darkness. This term is often used to describe the deliberate act or process of obscuring information, facts, or communication, making it challenging for others to comprehend or interpret, often for various purposes, such as deception or obfuscating the truth.

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Further usage examples of obfuscation

1. The contract’s obfuscation made it nearly impossible to interpret.
2. Obfuscation in art can reveal the artist's complex mind.
3. Privacy through obfuscation is becoming a popular tactic.
4. Encryption is not obfuscation; they serve different purposes.
5. Obfuscation often masks the true intent of a policy.
6. Through obfuscation, he avoided answering the direct question.
7. Dark patterns are web designs involving user obfuscation.
8. Misinformation often involves a degree of obfuscation.
9. They used obfuscation to conceal the project's true cost.
10. The document’s obfuscation concealed its controversial content.
11. The politician's obfuscation of the issue only served to confuse the public further.
12. The company's financial reports were filled with obfuscation, making it difficult to understand their true financial status.
13. The lawyer's deliberate obfuscation during the trial left the jury uncertain about the defendant's innocence.
14. The speaker's obfuscation of the facts caused skepticism among the audience.
15. The company's obfuscation of their data breaches raised suspicions about their commitment to customer privacy.
16. The scientist's obfuscation of the research findings undermined the credibility of the study.
17. The politician's obfuscation tactics were aimed at deflecting attention from their own wrongdoing.
18. The student's obfuscation of their plagiarism was eventually discovered by the teacher.
19. The detective had to navigate through layers of obfuscation to uncover the truth behind the crime.
20. The company's obfuscation of its product's side effects led to a public health crisis.
21. The suspect's obfuscation of his whereabouts on the night of the crime made it difficult for the police to build a case against him.
22. The journalist's investigation exposed the obfuscation tactics used by the government to manipulate public opinion.
23. The company's obfuscation of its unethical labor practices drew public outrage.
24. The speaker's obfuscation of the topic left the audience feeling bewildered and unsatisfied.