# clueless

/ˈkɫuɫəs/ (US) · /klˈuːləs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/clueless
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. ignorant or oblivious

adjective · CEFR B1 · Informal

having no knowledge or understanding about a situation; not knowing what to do.

For teachers: lacking knowledge, understanding, or social awareness; often used to describe someone who is completely oblivious to their surroundings or a specific topic.

- He was completely clueless about how to fix the broken sink.
- Despite having worked there for three months, he remained entirely clueless regarding the company's internal filing procedures.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'about'.

### 2. without hints

adjective · CEFR B2

having no clues or information to help solve a puzzle or problem.

For teachers: literally lacking any physical or informational clues; used in contexts like detective work or puzzle-solving.

- The detectives were clueless until they found the hidden camera.
- The investigators were left clueless after the rain washed away any potential footprints from the crime scene.

## Examples

- I was clueless about the surprise party.
- The manager remained clueless about the staff's growing frustration until the resignation letters arrived.
- Despite the obvious warning signs in the market data, the board remained blissfully clueless about the impending financial crisis.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.