Definitions
- Describing an angle that is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. - Referring to a person who is slow to understand or perceive something. - Talking about a situation or response that is insensitive or lacking in intelligence.
- Describing a lack of sharpness or brightness in appearance or sound. - Referring to a person who is boring or uninteresting. - Talking about a situation or experience that is lacking in excitement or stimulation.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words have negative connotations.
- 2Both can be used to describe people, situations, or objects.
- 3Both can be used to describe a lack of something (intelligence, sharpness, excitement).
What is the difference?
- 1Meaning: Obtuse refers to a lack of intelligence or sensitivity, while dull refers to a lack of excitement or stimulation.
- 2Usage: Obtuse is more commonly used in academic or technical contexts, while dull is more commonly used in everyday language.
- 3Connotation: Obtuse has a more negative and insulting connotation than dull.
- 4Scope: Obtuse has a narrower scope of usage than dull, which can be used in a wider range of contexts.
Remember this!
Obtuse and dull are both negative words that describe a lack of something. However, obtuse specifically refers to a lack of intelligence or sensitivity, while dull refers to a lack of excitement or stimulation. Obtuse is more technical and academic in nature, while dull is more commonly used in everyday language. Additionally, obtuse has a more negative connotation than dull.