Vocabulary Spotlight
Abstruse
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: Difficult to understand; obscure or complex.
“The professor’s lecture on quantum physics was filled with abstruse theories.”
Pronunciation
[ab-STROOS]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Complex
Esoteric
Cryptic
Incomprehensible
Antonyms
Simple
Obvious
Understandable
Plain
Related Words
Enigmatic (adjective)
Word Origin
“Abstruse” originates from the Latin word “abstrusus,” meaning “concealed” or “hidden away,” from “abstrudere,” which means “to push away.”
Word Family
Adjective: Enigmatic – Difficult to interpret or understand.
Adjective: Complex – Consisting of many intricate parts or aspects.
Mnemonics
A Brainy Study That Requires Understanding Sophisticated Elements
This mnemonic emphasizes that “abstruse” refers to something complex and difficult to understand.
Industry-specific Usage
Academia
In academia, abstruse theories or concepts often require specialized study and deep understanding.
Philosophy
Philosophers may discuss abstruse topics, such as metaphysics, which are challenging and not easily comprehended.
Science
In science, abstruse explanations are common in fields like quantum mechanics and theoretical physics.
In Context
“Abstruse” is often used to describe ideas, theories, or texts that are obscure and complex, requiring significant effort or knowledge to understand fully.