Clueless
/ˈkluːlɪs/
adjectiveBeginnerCommonAcademic
Meaning
Question
Definitions
1
Having no knowledge or understanding of something.
/ˈkluːlɪs/
adjectivenegativeBeginner
Academic
Lacking knowledge or understanding.
She was totally clueless about the instructions.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone trying to solve a puzzle but doesn't even know where to start – that's clueless! Like trying to build a LEGO castle without instructions.
👶 For kids: Not knowing anything at all!
More Examples
2
He felt clueless in the advanced physics class.
How It's Used
Everyday Conversation
"He was completely clueless about the surprise party."
From "clue" + "less", meaning lacking clues or understanding.
The word's usage increased significantly in the latter half of the 20th century.
Memory tip
Think 'clue-less' – lacking clues.
Practice
cluelesclueleescluelessly
Usage
60%Spoken
40%Written