Definitions
- Describing something that is theoretical or conceptual rather than concrete or tangible. - Referring to a summary or brief overview of a larger work or idea. - Talking about art that does not depict recognizable objects or figures.
- Describing knowledge or ideas that are intended for or likely to be understood by only a small group of people with specialized knowledge or interests. - Referring to something that is obscure, mysterious, or difficult to understand. - Talking about a subject that is not commonly known or understood by the general public.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe concepts that are not immediately obvious or easily understood.
- 2Both words can refer to knowledge or ideas that are not widely known or accessible.
- 3Both words can be used to describe art or literature that is not representational or realistic.
What is the difference?
- 1Scope: Abstract can refer to a wide range of concepts, while esoteric is more specific to knowledge or ideas that are only understood by a select few.
- 2Accessibility: Abstract concepts can still be understood by most people with some effort, while esoteric knowledge is intentionally difficult to access or understand.
- 3Usage: Abstract is a more common word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while esoteric is more specialized and less frequently used.
- 4Connotation: Abstract has a neutral connotation, while esoteric can have a negative connotation of being overly complicated or exclusive.
Remember this!
Abstract and esoteric are both words that describe concepts or knowledge that are not immediately obvious or easily understood. However, abstract refers to theoretical or conceptual ideas that may require some effort to understand, while esoteric refers to knowledge or ideas that are intentionally difficult to access or understand, often reserved for a select few with specialized knowledge or interests.
