Definitions
- Used to describe something that is difficult to understand or comprehend. - Referring to a topic or subject that is complex and requires specialized knowledge. - Talking about a concept or idea that is abstract and not easily grasped.
- Describing something that is unclear, vague, or ambiguous. - Referring to a topic or subject that is not well-known or widely understood. - Talking about a piece of information or knowledge that is hidden or difficult to access.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something that is difficult to understand or unclear.
- 2Both words can be used to describe complex topics or ideas.
- 3Both words can refer to a lack of clarity or understanding.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Abstruse is typically used to describe complex or abstract concepts, while obscure can refer to a wide range of things that are unclear or not well-known.
- 2Connotation: Abstruse has a more neutral connotation, while obscure can have negative connotations of being intentionally hidden or difficult to access.
- 3Subjectivity: Abstruse is more objective and refers to the inherent difficulty of a topic, while obscure can be subjective and depend on the level of familiarity or knowledge of the person trying to understand it.
- 4Scope: Abstruse is often used in academic or technical contexts, while obscure can be used in a wider range of contexts.
Remember this!
Abstruse and obscure are both words used to describe something that is difficult to understand or unclear. However, abstruse is typically used to describe complex or abstract concepts, while obscure can refer to a wide range of things that are unclear or not well-known. Additionally, abstruse has a more neutral connotation, while obscure can have negative connotations of being intentionally hidden or difficult to access.
