What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
obtuse
Example
The angle of the triangle was obtuse. [obtuse: adjective]
Example
He was being obtuse and didn't understand what I was trying to say. [obtuse: adjective]
Example
Her obtuse response to my problem made me feel unheard. [obtuse: adjective]
stupid
Example
He did something stupid and got himself into trouble. [stupid: adjective]
Example
It was a stupid decision to go out without a coat in the middle of winter. [stupid: adjective]
Example
Her stupid comment offended everyone in the room. [stupid: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stupid is more commonly used than obtuse in everyday language. Stupid is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while obtuse is less common and typically used in more technical or specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between obtuse and stupid?
While obtuse is typically associated with a more formal tone, stupid is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.