Abstruse
Adjective
Definition: Difficult to comprehend; obscure.
Synonyms: Obscure, Arcane, Esoteric, Recondite, Cryptic
Antonyms: Clear, Straightforward, Simple
- The professor's lecture on quantum physics was so abstruse that most students couldn't understand it.
- The book contained abstruse philosophical concepts that required careful reading to grasp.
- Think of someone trying to solve an incredibly complex puzzle; it requires deep thought and understanding.
Etymology:
The word "abstruse" comes from the Latin word "abstrusus," which means "hidden" or "concealed." It entered the English language in the early 17th century.
Historical Usage:"Abstruse" has been used consistently throughout its history with its meaning of being difficult to understand or comprehend.
Related Idioms:
"In abstruse terms"
Explanation:This phrase signifies the use of complex or obscure language or terminology to explain something, often making it harder to understand.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "abstruse" with "obscure."
Explanation:While "abstruse" and "obscure" can be synonymous, "abstruse" specifically refers to something that is difficult to comprehend due to its inherent complexity or deep meaning, whereas "obscure" simply means something is not widely known or understood. So, "obscure" can refer to both simple and complex subjects, while "abstruse" only applies to complex subjects.