Uncertain, doubtful, or unpromising — lacking confidence or a clear prospect.
試験に合格できるかどうかはまだおぼつかない。
It's still uncertain whether I can pass the exam.
証拠が乏しく、彼の説明はおぼつかないと感じた。
The evidence is thin, and I found his explanation unconvincing.
新製品の需要はおぼつかないため、追加発注は見送った。
Because demand for the new product is uncertain, we decided not to place additional orders.
Unsteady or unreliable in movement or performance — shaky, faltering, or physically insecure.
祖父は年を取って足取りがおぼつかない。
My grandfather is old and his steps are unsteady.
緊張で声がおぼつかないが、何とかスピーチを続けた。
Although his voice was shaky from nerves, he managed to continue the speech.
新人の手つきがおぼつかないので、先輩がフォローした。
The newcomer's handling was unsteady, so a senior stepped in to assist.
Unclear, vague, or hazy — lacking detail or clarity in memory, awareness, or expression.
あの夜のことは記憶がおぼつかないので詳しく話せない。
I can't speak about that night in detail because my recollection is hazy.
彼の説明はところどころおぼつかなく、納得がいかなかった。
His explanation was vague in places and wasn't convincing.
未来の計画はまだおぼつかないが、準備だけは進めている。
Plans for the future are still unclear, but preparations are underway.