Synonyms for

Mystery

Verb / ˈmɪstɜ:i: / Another word for mystery — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain.

Synonyms & similar words

whodunit closedbook enigma mysterystory secret enigma puzzle secret riddle conundrum problem question unknown perplexity clue

Synonyms by register

Formal

enigma puzzle riddle

Informal

conundrum whodunit

Literary

secret arcana

Antonyms

certainty clarity explanation solution understanding obviousness known

Common collocations

  • solve a mystery
  • unsolved mystery
  • deep mystery
  • a sense of mystery
  • air of mystery
  • mystery novel
  • mystery surrounding
  • central mystery

Word family

noun mystery
verb mystify
adjective mysterious
adverb mysteriously

Usage note

While 'mystery' often refers to something unknown or unexplained, it can also describe a quality of being intriguing or fascinating, even when the subject is not necessarily a problem to be solved.

Example sentences

  1. The mystery novel kept me on the edge of my seat.
  2. The disappearance of the treasure remains a mystery.
  3. The mystery surrounding the haunted house drew in many curious visitors.
  4. The mystery of the Bermuda Triangle has yet to be solved.
  5. The detective is determined to solve the mystery of the stolen necklace.

Quotes

  • The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science. - Albert Einstein
  • The mystery of life is not a problem to be solved; it is a reality to be experienced. - Aart van der Leeuw
  • The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper. - W.B. Yeats

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