What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
esoteric
Example
The professor's lecture on quantum mechanics was too esoteric for most of the students. [esoteric: adjective]
Example
The book contains esoteric knowledge about ancient civilizations that is not commonly known. [esoteric: adjective]
arcane
Example
The company's financial records were kept in an arcane system that only a few employees knew how to use. [arcane: adjective]
Example
The magician's tricks were so arcane that no one could figure out how he did them. [arcane: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Esoteric is more common than arcane in everyday language and is often used in academic or intellectual contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between esoteric and arcane?
Both esoteric and arcane are formal words that are not commonly used in casual conversation. However, esoteric is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, while arcane is more specific and is typically used in more formal or specialized contexts.
