mysterious
word · lemma: mystery
/mɪˈstɪɹiəs/
mi-STEER-ee-uhs
/mɪstˈiəɹɪəs/
mi-STEER-ee-uhs
Definition
If something is mysterious, it is difficult to understand, explain, or know about. It can also describe a person who seems secretive or hard to read.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for things, events, sounds, or people: 'a mysterious noise', 'a mysterious man'. It usually has a curious or dramatic feeling, not just 'unknown'. Do not confuse it with 'secret', which means intentionally hidden.
Spanish: misterioso - enigmáticoPortuguese (BR): misterioso - enigmáticoPortuguese (PT): misterioso - enigmáticoChinese (Simplified): 神秘的 - 难以解释的Chinese (Traditional): 神祕的 - 難以解釋的Hindi: रहस्यमय - गूढ़Arabic: غامض - mysteriousBengali: রহস্যময় - অজানাRussian: загадочныйJapanese: 神秘的Vietnamese: bí ẩn - huyền bíKorean: 신비로운 - 미스터리한Turkish: gizemliUrdu: پراسرارIndonesian: misterius - penuh misteri
Example Sentences
We heard a mysterious sound outside the window.
basic
She got a mysterious letter in the mail.
basic
The new student is quiet and mysterious.
basic
He gave me this mysterious smile and walked away.
natural
The whole situation feels a little mysterious, doesn't it?
natural
She has that mysterious vibe that makes people curious.
natural