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A1 adjective #5,234 most common 14 min read

cloudy

Top 5,234

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips cloudy in 30 Seconds

Explanation cloudy in your Level:

At the Beginner level, the word cloudy is almost exclusively used to talk about the weather. It is one of the basic words you learn to describe the world around you. You use it in simple sentences like 'It is cloudy today' or 'The sky is cloudy.' It helps you understand weather forecasts and talk to your friends about what to wear. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the metaphorical meanings. Just remember that 'cloudy' is the opposite of 'sunny' or 'clear.' If you see grey or white clouds in the sky, you say it is cloudy. It is an adjective, so it describes a noun (the sky) or follows a verb like 'is.' You might also see it on a weather app next to a picture of a cloud. It is a very useful word for daily life and basic communication about your environment.

At the Elementary level, you start to use cloudy in slightly more complex ways. You might describe liquids for the first time. For example, you could say 'The water in the glass is cloudy.' You also begin to use adverbs to show how cloudy it is, such as 'partly cloudy' or 'very cloudy.' You might use it to explain why you can't see something, like 'I can't see the mountains because it is cloudy.' This level is about connecting the word to your physical senses—sight and transparency. You are still mostly using it for physical things, but you are expanding the range of objects you describe, moving from just the sky to things like water, juice, or even a dirty window. You are also becoming more comfortable with the comparative form, 'cloudier,' to compare the weather between two different days.

At the Intermediate level, you begin to use cloudy in a metaphorical way. You might describe someone's thoughts or a situation as cloudy. For example, 'My memory of that day is a bit cloudy.' This means you don't remember it clearly. You also start to hear and use the word in more professional or specific contexts, like in a science class or a doctor's office. You might describe vision as being cloudy. At this level, you understand that 'cloudy' means something is blocking the clarity, whether that 'something' is a literal cloud, a physical particle in a liquid, or a mental block in your mind. You can also use it to describe more complex weather patterns and understand the difference between 'cloudy' and 'overcast.' Your vocabulary is growing to include related words like 'murky' or 'hazy,' and you can choose 'cloudy' when it is the most appropriate, simple term.

At the Upper Intermediate level, you use cloudy with more nuance and precision. You can discuss the 'cloudy outlook' of the economy or the 'cloudy legal status' of a new law. You understand that in these cases, 'cloudy' implies uncertainty, complexity, and a lack of transparency. You are comfortable using it in both formal and informal writing. You might use it to describe the mood of a scene in a story, where a cloudy sky reflects a character's internal confusion. You also know more technical synonyms and can explain why you chose 'cloudy' over 'turbid' or 'ambiguous.' Your sentences are more sophisticated, often using 'cloudy' as part of a larger discussion about transparency, clarity, and truth. You recognize the word in literature and can interpret its symbolic meanings, such as using clouds to represent a barrier between the human and the divine.

At the Advanced level, you use cloudy to convey subtle shades of meaning. You might use it in an academic essay to describe the 'cloudy origins' of a historical event, suggesting that the evidence is conflicting or missing. You are sensitive to the register of the word and might choose a more formal alternative like 'nebulous' or 'opaque' depending on your audience. However, you also appreciate the simple power of 'cloudy' for its strong visual imagery. You can use it to describe complex philosophical ideas that lack clarity. Your use of the word is effortless, and you can play with its literal and metaphorical meanings simultaneously. You might use it in a speech to describe a 'cloudy vision for the future' that needs to be cleared through better leadership. You understand all the idiomatic expressions and can use them correctly in context.

At the Proficiency level, you have a masterly command of the word cloudy. You can use it in highly creative and literary ways, perhaps as a central metaphor in a piece of writing. You understand the deepest etymological roots of the word and how its meaning has shifted over centuries. You can use it to describe the most abstract and complex states of being or social phenomena. Your use of 'cloudy' is always precise, and you can distinguish it from even the most similar synonyms with ease. You might use it to describe the 'cloudy ethics' of a modern technological development, implying a deep and troubling lack of clarity that has significant consequences. You are comfortable using the word in any context, from a casual conversation to a high-level scientific or philosophical debate, always choosing the exact form and placement to achieve your desired effect.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

cloudy in 30 Seconds

Cloudy primarily describes a sky filled with clouds, blocking direct sunlight and creating a grey or white appearance in the atmosphere during the daytime.
It also refers to liquids that are not transparent, often appearing milky or containing small particles that prevent you from seeing through them clearly.
Metaphorically, the word is used to describe situations, memories, or thoughts that are confusing, uncertain, or not well-defined, making them difficult to understand or recall.
In various professional fields, such as medicine and science, it describes physical conditions like blurred vision or chemical solutions that have become opaque or turbid.

The word cloudy is a versatile adjective primarily used to describe the state of the atmosphere when it is filled with clouds. When you look up at the sky and cannot see the blue expanse or the bright sun because of a grey or white layer of condensed water vapor, you are experiencing a cloudy day. This is the most common usage, especially in daily conversations about the weather. People use it to decide what to wear, whether to carry an umbrella, or if it is a good day for a picnic. However, the meaning of cloudy extends beyond the sky. It is frequently employed to describe the clarity of liquids. For instance, if you pour a glass of water and it looks milky or contains tiny particles that prevent you from seeing through it, you would describe that water as cloudy. This physical lack of transparency is the core concept behind the word. In a more abstract sense, cloudy can describe a person's thoughts or a situation that is not easy to understand. If someone's memory is cloudy, they cannot remember details clearly. If a legal situation is cloudy, the rules and outcomes are uncertain and confusing. This transition from a literal physical description of the sky to a metaphorical description of the mind shows how the English language uses simple environmental terms to explain complex human experiences.

Meteorological Context: Used to describe a sky that is at least fifty percent covered by clouds. It is often contrasted with 'clear' or 'sunny' and is a staple of weather forecasting.

The weather forecast says it will be cloudy all afternoon, so we should probably stay indoors and watch a movie.

In the culinary world, 'cloudy' is a specific descriptor for certain beverages. Unfiltered apple juice is often called 'cloudy apple juice' because the fruit solids remain in the liquid, giving it a rich, opaque appearance compared to the clear, filtered version. Similarly, in science, a chemical reaction might produce a 'cloudy' precipitate, indicating that a solid has formed within a liquid solution. This suggests that 'cloudy' is not just about the weather; it is about the presence of something that disrupts clarity. Whether it is water droplets in the air, pulp in a drink, or confusion in a thought process, 'cloudy' signifies a barrier to clear vision or understanding. It is a word that bridges the gap between what we see with our eyes and what we perceive with our minds.

Visual Impairment: Used in medical contexts to describe eyes or vision that is not sharp, often due to conditions like cataracts where the lens becomes opaque.

After the chemical splash, his vision became cloudy and he had to be rushed to the emergency room.

Metaphorical Confusion: Describes situations or thoughts that lack clarity, precision, or certainty, making them difficult to navigate or interpret.

The future of the project is cloudy because the funding has not yet been approved by the board of directors.

The pond water was so cloudy that we could not see the fish swimming at the bottom.

His judgment was cloudy due to the lack of sleep and the stress of the deadline.

Using the word cloudy correctly involves understanding its role as an adjective and its various applications from physical objects to abstract concepts. In its most basic form, it modifies nouns to indicate a lack of clarity. When talking about the weather, it is often used with the 'dummy it' subject, such as 'It is cloudy.' This is a standard way to describe the current environmental state. You can also use it directly before a noun, like 'a cloudy sky' or 'cloudy conditions.' It is important to remember that 'cloudy' describes the quality of the sky, not the clouds themselves. You wouldn't say 'the cloud is cloudy'; instead, you say 'the sky is cloudy' because it is full of clouds. When you move into the realm of liquids, 'cloudy' functions as a predicative adjective after verbs like 'look,' 'become,' or 'remain.' For example, 'The soup became cloudy after I added the cream.' This explains a change in the physical state of the liquid. In these cases, 'cloudy' serves as a warning or a description of texture and composition.

Weather Patterns: Sentences often use 'cloudy' to set the scene or provide context for outdoor activities. It can be modified by adverbs like 'partly,' 'mostly,' or 'very.'

Even though it was cloudy, the temperature remained quite high throughout the day.

In metaphorical usage, 'cloudy' often appears in sentences discussing decision-making, memory, or legalities. Here, it takes on a more sophisticated tone. You might hear a lawyer say, 'The evidence in this case is somewhat cloudy,' implying that the facts are not clear-cut or are open to multiple interpretations. In personal narratives, you might find sentences like, 'My memories of that childhood summer are a bit cloudy now,' which beautifully conveys the fading or blurring of past events over time. When using 'cloudy' in these ways, it is helpful to pair it with words that emphasize the degree of uncertainty, such as 'somewhat,' 'rather,' or 'extremely.' This adds nuance to your communication. Additionally, 'cloudy' can be used in the comparative and superlative forms—'cloudier' and 'cloudiest'—though these are most frequently used when comparing the weather of different days or regions. For instance, 'London is often cloudier than Madrid in the winter months.' This allows for clear comparisons between different states of clarity or weather conditions.

Comparative Usage: Comparing levels of clarity between two objects or two different times.

The water in the lake is cloudier today than it was yesterday after the heavy rainstorm.

Liquid Descriptions: Describing the transparency of fluids in science, cooking, or general observation.

You should not drink the apple juice if it looks unusually cloudy or has a strange smell.

The scientist noted that the solution turned cloudy immediately upon adding the catalyst.

It was such a cloudy morning that I decided to stay in bed and read a book instead of going for a run.

The word cloudy is ubiquitous in daily life, but there are specific environments where it is most frequently heard. The most obvious place is the morning news or a weather application on your smartphone. Meteorologists use it constantly to provide 'the outlook' for the day. You will hear phrases like 'partly cloudy skies' or 'becoming cloudy by evening.' This usage is so common that it is one of the first weather words English learners acquire. Another common setting is the kitchen or a restaurant. A chef might warn a trainee not to let the stock boil too vigorously, or it will become 'cloudy' rather than clear. Customers might ask for 'cloudy lemonade,' which is a specific style of the drink that includes lemon pulp and is less processed. In these contexts, 'cloudy' is a neutral, descriptive term that conveys important information about the quality or type of a food item.

Weather Forecasts: Television, radio, and digital apps use 'cloudy' as a primary descriptor for atmospheric conditions.

The morning report indicates cloudy conditions with a chance of light showers in the afternoon.

You will also encounter 'cloudy' in medical and scientific discussions. An optometrist might use the word when examining a patient's eyes, noting that the lens appears 'cloudy,' which could indicate the development of a cataract. In a laboratory, a chemist might observe that a liquid has turned 'cloudy' after a reaction, signaling the formation of a precipitate. Furthermore, in the world of finance and politics, analysts often describe the 'cloudy outlook' for the economy or a 'cloudy political landscape.' This metaphorical use indicates that the future is difficult to predict because there are too many unknown factors, much like how literal clouds block our view of the horizon. Hearing 'cloudy' in these professional settings suggests a lack of certainty or a need for closer investigation. It serves as a signal that things are not as clear as they should be, prompting further analysis or caution. Whether you are listening to a weather reporter, a doctor, or a financial analyst, 'cloudy' is a key word for describing anything that is obscured or uncertain.

Medical Consultations: Doctors use 'cloudy' to describe symptoms related to vision or the appearance of bodily fluids during an examination.

The doctor noticed that the patient's cornea was slightly cloudy following the minor eye injury.

Financial Analysis: Experts use 'cloudy' to describe market trends or economic forecasts that are unpredictable or lack transparency.

Economists warn that the outlook for the next quarter remains cloudy due to rising inflation rates.

I ordered a cloudy cider because I prefer the natural taste of the unfiltered pressed apples.

The pool water has been cloudy lately, which usually means the chlorine levels are a bit too low.

One of the most frequent errors when using cloudy is confusing it with the noun 'cloud.' Learners might say 'The sky is cloud' instead of 'The sky is cloudy.' It is essential to remember that 'cloudy' is the adjective form that describes the state of the sky. Another common mistake involves the degree of cloudiness. Students often use 'cloudy' when they actually mean 'overcast.' While they are related, 'overcast' implies a total, dense covering of clouds that makes the day dark, whereas 'cloudy' can refer to a sky with many clouds but still some visible light. Using 'cloudy' when it is actually 'foggy' is another point of confusion. Fog is essentially a cloud that touches the ground, but in English, we use 'foggy' to describe low-level visibility and 'cloudy' for the sky above. Mixing these up can lead to misunderstandings in directions or safety warnings.

Noun vs. Adjective: Mistaking the object (cloud) for the description (cloudy). Always use the adjective form to describe the weather state.

Incorrect: It is a very cloud day. Correct: It is a very cloudy day.

Furthermore, people sometimes use 'cloudy' to describe dirty things that aren't liquids or the sky. For example, you wouldn't usually describe a dusty room as 'cloudy,' even though dust can form 'clouds.' Instead, you would use 'dusty.' 'Cloudy' is specifically reserved for things that are naturally supposed to be clear, like water, glass, or the sky. Another subtle mistake is using 'cloudy' to describe a dark night. If there are no stars visible because of clouds, you can say the night is 'cloudy,' but if it is just dark because there is no moon, 'cloudy' is incorrect. In metaphorical use, be careful not to confuse 'cloudy' with 'vague.' While they are similar, 'cloudy' usually implies that something *was* clear but is now obscured, whereas 'vague' often means it was never clear to begin with. Understanding these nuances helps in selecting the most precise word for the situation. Finally, in cooking, don't confuse 'cloudy' with 'creamy.' A cloudy soup is usually a mistake (unless it's supposed to be), while a creamy soup is an intentional texture. Using the wrong word could misrepresent your culinary skills!

Foggy vs. Cloudy: Foggy refers to clouds at ground level that block horizontal vision. Cloudy refers to the sky above.

I could not see the road because it was foggy, not just because the sky was cloudy.

Cloudy vs. Vague: Cloudy implies something is obscured or blurred. Vague implies a lack of detail or definition from the start.

His explanation was vague, but my understanding of the topic is still cloudy.

The mirror became cloudy with steam after I took a hot shower.

Don't say 'the sky is clouds' when you mean the weather is cloudy.

While cloudy is a very useful word, there are many alternatives that can provide more precision or a different emotional tone. If you are talking about the weather, 'overcast' is the most common synonym. It specifically means that the entire sky is covered with clouds, often suggesting a grey, gloomy day. 'Gloomy' itself is an alternative that adds a feeling of sadness or darkness to the description of a cloudy day. If the clouds are thin and you can still see some light, you might use 'hazy' or 'misty.' These words suggest a lighter, more diffused type of cloudiness. In the context of liquids, 'murky' and 'turbid' are excellent alternatives. 'Murky' often implies that the liquid is not only unclear but perhaps also dark or dirty, like the water in a swamp. 'Turbid' is a more technical, scientific term used to describe liquids with suspended particles, often heard in biology or environmental science.

Overcast vs. Cloudy: Overcast indicates 100% cloud cover and a lack of direct sunlight. Cloudy is more general and can include gaps in the clouds.

The sky was completely overcast, making it feel much later in the evening than it actually was.

For metaphorical clarity, words like 'nebulous,' 'vague,' or 'obscure' can be used instead of 'cloudy.' 'Nebulous' is a beautiful word that literally comes from the Latin for 'mist' or 'cloud,' and it describes ideas that are ill-defined or formless. 'Obscure' suggests that something is difficult to see or understand because it is hidden or not well-known. If you are talking about someone's vision, 'blurred' or 'fuzzy' might be more descriptive than 'cloudy.' These words focus on the lack of sharp edges in what the person is seeing. In academic or formal writing, you might choose 'ambiguous' to describe a situation that is 'cloudy' because it has more than one possible meaning. Choosing the right synonym depends on whether you want to emphasize the physical appearance, the scientific cause, or the emotional impact of the lack of clarity. By expanding your vocabulary beyond 'cloudy,' you can make your descriptions more vivid and your arguments more precise.

Murky vs. Cloudy: Murky suggests a dark, unpleasant lack of clarity, often associated with mud or pollution. Cloudy is more neutral.

We couldn't see anything in the murky depths of the old canal.

Nebulous vs. Cloudy: Nebulous is used for abstract concepts like plans or ideas that lack a clear structure or definition.

The company's goals for the next decade are still quite nebulous and need more detail.

The morning was hazy, with the sun barely visible through a thin layer of mist.

His memory of the accident was blurred by the trauma he had experienced.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"The meteorological forecast indicates predominantly cloudy conditions for the duration of the fiscal quarter."

Neutral

"It is going to be cloudy today, so you might want a jacket."

Informal

"It's super cloudy out there, looks like it might rain."

Child friendly

"The sun is hiding behind the cloudy sky today!"

Slang

"My brain is totally cloudy today, I can't think straight."

Fun Fact

Before the year 1300, if you said it was a 'cloudy' day, people might have thought you were talking about a road full of large stones! The shift from 'rock' to 'cloud' is one of the most interesting changes in the English language.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈklaʊdi/

US /ˈklaʊdi/

CLOU-dy

Rhymes With

rowdy dowdy howdy proudly loudly shroudy cloudy audi

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'ou' like the 'oo' in 'food'. It should be 'ow' like in 'cow'.
Putting the stress on the second syllable. It must be on the first.
Forgetting the 'd' sound in the middle.
Making the 'y' sound too long or like an 'ai' sound.
Confusing the pronunciation with the word 'clouty' (which is not a common word).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

The word is very common and easy to recognize in basic texts about weather or daily life.

Writing 1/5

The spelling is straightforward, though some learners might forget the 'y' at the end.

Speaking 1/5

The pronunciation is simple and follows standard English patterns.

Listening 1/5

It is a distinct-sounding word that is rarely confused with others in spoken English.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

cloud sky sun weather clear

Learn Next

overcast hazy murky transparency meteorology

Advanced

turbidity nebulous opaque ambiguous obscure

Grammar to Know

Adjective Formation with -y

Cloud becomes cloudy, rain becomes rainy, and sun becomes sunny.

Dummy 'It' for Weather

We use 'It is cloudy' to describe the weather without a real subject.

Predicative Adjectives

In 'The water is cloudy,' the adjective follows the linking verb 'is'.

Attributive Adjectives

In 'A cloudy sky,' the adjective comes directly before the noun it describes.

Comparative Adjectives

For two-syllable adjectives ending in 'y', change 'y' to 'i' and add 'er': cloudier.

Examples by Level

It is a cloudy day today.

Il fait nuageux aujourd'hui.

Simple adjective following a 'dummy it' subject.

The sky is very cloudy.

Le ciel est très nuageux.

Adjective modified by the adverb 'very'.

Is it cloudy in London?

Est-ce qu'il fait nuageux à Londres ?

Question form using the verb 'to be'.

I don't like cloudy weather.

Je n'aime pas le temps nuageux.

Adjective modifying the noun 'weather'.

It was cloudy yesterday morning.

C'était nuageux hier matin.

Past tense of the verb 'to be'.

The sun is behind a cloudy sky.

Le soleil est derrière un ciel nuageux.

Prepositional phrase describing location.

We saw a cloudy sky during our walk.

Nous avons vu un ciel nuageux pendant notre promenade.

Adjective as an attributive modifier.

It will be cloudy tomorrow.

Il fera nuageux demain.

Future tense using 'will be'.

The water in the lake is a bit cloudy.

L'eau du lac est un peu trouble.

Describing a liquid's transparency.

It is partly cloudy this afternoon.

C'est partiellement nuageux cet après-midi.

Using the common weather term 'partly cloudy'.

The juice looks cloudy because it has pulp.

Le jus a l'air trouble parce qu'il contient de la pulpe.

Using the linking verb 'looks'.

It was cloudier in the mountains than in the city.

Il faisait plus nuageux dans les montagnes qu'en ville.

Comparative form 'cloudier'.

The window is cloudy from the steam.

La fenêtre est embuée par la vapeur.

Describing glass that is not clear.

Why is the fish tank water so cloudy?

Pourquoi l'eau de l'aquarium est-elle si trouble ?

Interrogative sentence about a liquid.

The sky became cloudy just before the rain.

Le ciel est devenu nuageux juste avant la pluie.

Using the change-of-state verb 'became'.

I prefer clear skies to cloudy ones.

Je préfère les ciels dégagés aux ciels nuageux.

Using 'ones' to avoid repeating 'skies'.

My memory of that event is still a bit cloudy.

Mon souvenir de cet événement est encore un peu flou.

Metaphorical use describing memory.

The doctor said my vision was cloudy due to an infection.

Le médecin a dit que ma vision était trouble à cause d'une infection.

Medical context describing eyesight.

The rules for the contest are quite cloudy and confusing.

Les règles du concours sont assez floues et confuses.

Describing abstract concepts like rules.

The soup turned cloudy when I added the milk.

La soupe est devenue trouble quand j'ai ajouté le lait.

Describing a chemical or culinary change.

He had a cloudy expression on his face all morning.

Il avait une expression sombre sur le visage toute la matinée.

Describing someone's mood or facial expression.

The future of the company remains cloudy after the merger.

L'avenir de l'entreprise reste incertain après la fusion.

Metaphorical use describing a business situation.

Cloudy apple juice is often more flavorful than clear juice.

Le jus de pomme trouble est souvent plus savoureux que le jus clair.

Using 'cloudy' as a specific product descriptor.

The lens of the camera was cloudy, so the photos were bad.

L'objectif de l'appareil photo était trouble, donc les photos étaient mauvaises.

Describing an optical instrument.

The ethical implications of the new law are still very cloudy.

Les implications éthiques de la nouvelle loi sont encore très floues.

Describing complex abstract concepts.

His judgment was cloudy because of his personal bias.

Son jugement était troublé à cause de son parti pris personnel.

Describing a mental state affecting decision making.

The water became turbid and cloudy after the construction work started.

L'eau est devenue trouble et opaque après le début des travaux.

Using 'cloudy' alongside a more technical synonym 'turbid'.

The witness gave a cloudy account of what happened that night.

Le témoin a donné un récit confus de ce qui s'est passé cette nuit-là.

Describing the quality of a narrative or testimony.

The economic outlook for next year is increasingly cloudy.

Les perspectives économiques pour l'année prochaine sont de plus en plus sombres.

Formal financial terminology.

The diamond was cheap because it was cloudy inside.

Le diamant était bon marché parce qu'il était trouble à l'intérieur.

Describing internal inclusions in a mineral.

A cloudy sky can sometimes create the perfect light for photography.

Un ciel nuageux peut parfois créer la lumière parfaite pour la photographie.

Discussing the technical effects of weather.

The reasons for his sudden resignation remain cloudy.

Les raisons de sa démission soudaine restent floues.

Describing a lack of public information or transparency.

The historical record is cloudy regarding the true author of the poem.

Les archives historiques sont floues quant au véritable auteur du poème.

Academic usage describing historical uncertainty.

The political landscape is cloudy, with no clear frontrunner in the election.

Le paysage politique est flou, sans favori clair pour l'élection.

Metaphorical use in a political context.

Her vision of the future was cloudy, lacking any concrete plans.

Sa vision de l'avenir était floue, manquant de tout plan concret.

Describing a lack of personal direction or clarity.

The liquid in the beaker turned cloudy, indicating a chemical reaction had occurred.

Le liquide dans le bécher est devenu trouble, indiquant qu'une réaction chimique s'était produite.

Precise scientific observation.

The contract was written in such cloudy language that no one understood it.

Le contrat était rédigé dans une langue si obscure que personne ne le comprenait.

Criticizing the clarity of professional writing.

The debate was clouded by personal attacks and cloudy logic.

Le débat a été obscurci par des attaques personnelles et une logique confuse.

Using 'cloudy' to describe the quality of an argument.

The atmosphere in the room was cloudy with tension and unspoken resentment.

L'atmosphère dans la pièce était lourde de tension et de ressentiment tacite.

Describing a social or emotional environment.

The artist used a cloudy palette to evoke a sense of mystery and unease.

L'artiste a utilisé une palette trouble pour évoquer un sentiment de mystère et de malaise.

Artistic analysis of color and mood.

The ontological status of the virtual world remains a cloudy philosophical issue.

Le statut ontologique du monde virtuel reste une question philosophique floue.

High-level academic and philosophical discourse.

His prose was often criticized for being overly dense and cloudy.

Sa prose était souvent critiquée pour être excessivement dense et obscure.

Literary criticism regarding style and clarity.

The subtle nuances of the treaty are cloudy even to seasoned diplomats.

Les subtiles nuances du traité sont floues même pour les diplomates chevronnés.

Describing extreme complexity in international relations.

The distinction between fact and fiction has become increasingly cloudy in the digital age.

La distinction entre fait et fiction est devenue de plus en plus floue à l'ère numérique.

Societal analysis of truth and media.

The patient's sensorium was cloudy, making a full neurological assessment difficult.

Le sensorium du patient était trouble, ce qui rendait difficile une évaluation neurologique complète.

Technical medical terminology for consciousness.

The origins of the universe remain cloudy, despite significant advances in astrophysics.

Les origines de l'univers restent floues, malgré les progrès significatifs de l'astrophysique.

Scientific discussion of the unknown.

The author explores the cloudy boundaries between love and obsession.

L'auteur explore les frontières floues entre l'amour et l'obsession.

Literary analysis of psychological themes.

The legal precedent set by the case is cloudy and likely to be challenged.

Le précédent juridique établi par l'affaire est flou et susceptible d'être contesté.

Describing legal uncertainty and future litigation.

Synonyms

overcast gloomy grey murky hazy misty

Antonyms

clear sunny bright

Common Collocations

cloudy sky

partly cloudy

mostly cloudy

cloudy water

cloudy vision

cloudy outlook

become cloudy

remain cloudy

cloudy apple juice

cloudy conditions

Common Phrases

A bit cloudy

— Used to describe something that is slightly unclear or a sky with some clouds. It is a very common, casual way to speak.

The weather is a bit cloudy today, but it is still quite warm.

Getting cloudy

— Indicates that clouds are starting to fill the sky. It describes a change in the weather.

It's getting cloudy, so we should probably start heading home.

Cloudy with a chance of

— A standard weather forecasting phrase followed by rain, snow, or showers. It has also become a popular cultural reference.

The forecast is cloudy with a chance of rain in the late afternoon.

Turn cloudy

— Describes a physical or metaphorical change from clear to unclear. It is often used for liquids or situations.

The relationship began to turn cloudy after they had a big argument.

Look cloudy

— Used to describe the appearance of something that seems unclear or suggests clouds in the sky. It is an observational phrase.

Does the sky look cloudy to you, or is it just my sunglasses?

Stay cloudy

— Indicates that the clouds will remain in the sky for a period of time. It describes a continuing state.

The weather is expected to stay cloudy for the rest of the week.

Cloudy and grey

— A common pairing of adjectives used to describe a particularly dull or depressing day. It emphasizes the lack of color.

It was a cloudy and grey morning in the city.

Cloudy and cool

— A common pairing used to describe weather that is not sunny but also not very cold. It is often used in forecasts.

Expect cloudy and cool conditions for the marathon on Sunday.

Unusually cloudy

— Describes a state of cloudiness that is not normal for a particular time or place. It suggests something surprising.

The water in the pool is unusually cloudy today.

Somewhat cloudy

— A slightly more formal way to say 'a bit cloudy.' It indicates a moderate level of cloudiness.

The details of the agreement are still somewhat cloudy.

Often Confused With

cloudy vs cloud

Cloud is the noun (the object in the sky), while cloudy is the adjective that describes the sky.

cloudy vs foggy

Foggy is when clouds are on the ground making it hard to see the road. Cloudy is when clouds are high in the sky.

cloudy vs dirty

A cloudy liquid might be clean but just have pulp or minerals. Dirty implies unwanted waste or mud.

Idioms & Expressions

"Cloudy judgment"

— When someone cannot think clearly or make good decisions because of emotions, stress, or other factors. It suggests a lack of mental clarity.

Don't let your anger lead to cloudy judgment when you talk to your boss.

neutral

"Cloudy memory"

— When someone cannot remember the details of an event clearly. It implies that the memory is like looking through a cloud.

I have a cloudy memory of that party, but I remember meeting you there.

informal

"Every cloud has a silver lining"

— A very common idiom meaning that there is something good in every bad situation. While it uses 'cloud,' it is the basis for the feeling of 'cloudy' days.

I lost my job, but I found a better one; every cloud has a silver lining.

informal

"Under a cloud"

— To be under suspicion or in a state of disgrace. While not using 'cloudy,' it is a very closely related metaphorical concept.

The manager left the company under a cloud after the money went missing.

neutral

"Wait for the clouds to clear"

— To wait for a situation to become easier to understand or for a problem to go away. It uses the weather as a metaphor for life.

We should wait for the clouds to clear before we make any big financial decisions.

neutral

"Head in the clouds"

— To be unrealistic or not paying attention to what is happening around you. It relates to the visual of being surrounded by clouds.

He has his head in the clouds if he thinks he can win without practicing.

informal

"Cloudy future"

— An uncertain future where it is difficult to see what will happen next. It is often used in business or politics.

The industry faces a cloudy future because of the new environmental regulations.

neutral

"Cloudy eyes"

— Can be a literal medical description or a metaphorical way to describe someone who is confused, dreaming, or not present.

The old dog had cloudy eyes but could still find his way to the kitchen.

neutral

"Cloudy thinking"

— Similar to cloudy judgment, it refers to a lack of logical or clear thought processes at a specific moment.

His cloudy thinking during the exam led to several simple mistakes.

informal

"A cloudy issue"

— A topic or problem that is not easy to understand because it is complex or lacks clear information.

The question of who owns the land is a very cloudy issue.

neutral

Easily Confused

cloudy vs overcast

Both describe clouds in the sky.

Overcast means the whole sky is covered and it's dark. Cloudy can mean there are many clouds but also some light or gaps.

It was cloudy this morning, but now it is completely overcast.

cloudy vs murky

Both describe liquids you cannot see through.

Murky usually implies the liquid is dark, muddy, or unpleasant. Cloudy is a more neutral description of transparency.

The cloudy apple juice was delicious, but the murky pond water looked dangerous.

cloudy vs hazy

Both describe a lack of clarity in the air.

Hazy is usually caused by heat, dust, or thin mist, not thick clouds. It often looks more yellow or white than grey.

The city was hazy because of the pollution, even though it wasn't a cloudy day.

cloudy vs vague

Both can describe unclear thoughts or ideas.

Vague means lacking detail. Cloudy means obscured or blurred, as if something is blocking the truth.

His vague instructions made my understanding of the task very cloudy.

cloudy vs misty

Both involve water in the air.

Misty refers to very light rain or low-level water droplets that you can walk through. Cloudy is about the sky above you.

It was a misty morning in the forest, but the sky above was cloudy.

Sentence Patterns

It is [cloudy].

It is cloudy.

The [noun] is [cloudy].

The sky is cloudy.

It is [adverb] cloudy.

It is very cloudy.

My [abstract noun] is [cloudy].

My memory is cloudy.

The [liquid] looks [cloudy].

The juice looks cloudy.

[Noun] remains [cloudy].

The future remains cloudy.

A [cloudy] [complex noun].

A cloudy ethical issue.

[Metaphorical subject] is [cloudy].

The distinction is cloudy.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in daily English, especially in weather-related discussions.

Common Mistakes

It is a cloud day. → It is a cloudy day.
You must use the adjective form 'cloudy' to describe the day, not the noun 'cloud.'
The water is more cloudy than yesterday. → The water is cloudier than yesterday.
For short adjectives ending in 'y,' we usually use the '-ier' ending instead of 'more.'
I can't see because it's cloudy outside. → I can't see the road because it's foggy outside.
If you are talking about visibility on the ground, 'foggy' is the correct word. 'Cloudy' is for the sky.
The soup is cloudy, it tastes like cream. → The soup is creamy.
'Cloudy' usually implies an accidental lack of clarity in a liquid, while 'creamy' is a desired texture.
His explanation was cloudy. → His explanation was vague / His understanding was cloudy.
While 'cloudy' can describe an explanation, 'vague' is more common for the message itself, while 'cloudy' often describes the person's state of mind.

Tips

Adjective ending in -y

Remember that to make 'cloudy' comparative, you change the 'y' to 'i' (cloudier). This applies to many weather words like sunny and rainy.

Cloudy vs. Overcast

Use 'overcast' when you want to sound more precise about a completely grey sky. It makes your English sound more advanced.

Describing Liquids

Don't be afraid to use 'cloudy' for drinks. It is the standard term for unfiltered juices and is very common in supermarkets.

Mental Clarity

Use 'cloudy memory' or 'cloudy judgment' to describe confusion. It's a very natural-sounding metaphor in English.

The 'ou' sound

The 'ou' in cloudy is the same sound as in 'house' and 'mouse.' Practice these words together to master the sound.

Weather Talk

In the UK, saying 'It's a bit cloudy, isn't it?' is a perfect way to start a conversation with a stranger at a bus stop.

Chemical Reactions

If you are studying science in English, remember that 'the solution turned cloudy' is a key phrase for describing a reaction.

Photography Tip

Remember that a cloudy day provides 'soft light,' which is often better for taking portraits than a bright, sunny day.

Vision Problems

If you ever need to see a doctor about your eyes, 'cloudy vision' is the correct term to use if things look blurred or milky.

Setting the Scene

Start your story with 'The morning was cloudy and cold' to immediately create a somber or serious atmosphere for your reader.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the word 'loud' inside 'cloudy.' A cloudy sky is like a 'loud' sky that is shouting 'No sun today!' Or, imagine a 'cloud' that is 'y' (why?) blocking the sun.

Visual Association

Imagine a glass of milk. It is white and you cannot see through it. Now imagine the sky looking like that milk. That is a cloudy sky.

Word Web

Sky Rain Grey Water Juice Confusion Memory Weather

Challenge

Try to find three things in your house that are cloudy. It could be the sky outside, a glass of juice, or a dirty mirror. Describe them out loud using the word 'cloudy'.

Word Origin

The word 'cloudy' comes from the Old English word 'cludig,' which meant 'rocky' or 'full of rocks.' This is because the original word for cloud, 'clud,' actually meant a mass of rock or a hill. Over time, the meaning shifted from physical rocks on the ground to the white, rocky-looking masses in the sky.

Original meaning: Full of rocks or hills.

Germanic (Old English)

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but be aware that describing someone's 'mental state' as cloudy should be done with care as it can imply confusion or illness.

Talking about cloudy weather is a standard 'icebreaker' or way to start a conversation in the United Kingdom.

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (Book and Movie) Both Sides Now (Song by Joni Mitchell mentions clouds) The term 'Cloudy' in the video game Final Fantasy VII (Cloud Strife)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Weather Forecasting

Partly cloudy
Mostly cloudy
Cloudy with showers
Increasingly cloudy

Cooking and Drinks

Cloudy apple juice
The stock is cloudy
Don't let it get cloudy
Cloudy lemonade

Health and Vision

Cloudy vision
Eyes look cloudy
Cloudy consciousness
Cloudy lens

Emotions and Memory

Cloudy memory
Cloudy judgment
Cloudy thoughts
Feel a bit cloudy

Physical Objects

Cloudy mirror
Cloudy window
Cloudy diamond
Cloudy liquid

Conversation Starters

"Do you prefer sunny days or cloudy days when you go for a walk in the park?"

"The sky looks very cloudy today; do you think it is going to rain this afternoon?"

"Have you ever tried cloudy apple juice? I think it tastes much better than the clear kind."

"Is it often cloudy in your hometown during the winter months, or is it usually sunny?"

"When you have a cloudy memory of something, how do you try to remember the details?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when the weather was very cloudy and how it made you feel throughout the day.

Write about a situation in your life that feels a bit cloudy or uncertain right now and what you can do to make it clearer.

Compare a clear glass of water to a cloudy one. What are the differences in how they look and how you feel about drinking them?

If your mind feels cloudy today, what are three things that are making it difficult for you to think clearly?

Think of a famous place you visited. Was the sky cloudy or clear? How did the weather change the way the place looked?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, that is redundant and grammatically incorrect. You should say 'the sky is cloudy' or 'there are many clouds.' Cloudy describes the state of the sky or a liquid, not the cloud itself.

Partly cloudy means there is more sun than clouds. Mostly cloudy means there are more clouds than sun. Meteorologists use these specific terms to tell you how much of the sky will be covered.

Yes, usually! Cloudy apple juice is just unfiltered juice that still has some of the fruit solids (pulp) in it. It is often considered more natural and healthy than clear apple juice.

Yes, in a medical context. If someone has cataracts, their eyes might look cloudy. It means the lens is not clear, which makes it difficult for them to see.

You spell it 'cloudier.' You must change the 'y' at the end of 'cloudy' to an 'i' before adding the 'er' ending. This is a common rule for adjectives ending in 'y'.

It is usually neutral, but it depends on the context. For weather, many people find it a bit negative or gloomy. For juice, it is often seen as positive and natural.

Yes. If your glasses have steam or a film on them so you can't see, you can say 'My glasses are cloudy.' You would then need to clean them to make them clear.

The most common opposites are 'a clear sky' or 'a sunny sky.' Both indicate that there are no clouds blocking the sun or the blue color of the sky.

It can, but it's more literary. If someone has a 'cloudy brow,' it means they look angry or worried. In modern English, we usually say they look 'gloomy' or 'unhappy.'

This is often just tiny air bubbles in the water. If you let the glass sit for a minute, the bubbles will go away and the water will become clear again.