What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recondite
Example
The professor's lecture was filled with recondite references that went over most of the students' heads. [recondite: adjective]
Example
The book delves into the recondite world of quantum physics, making it a challenging read for most people. [recondite: adjective]
arcane
Example
The organization's arcane rituals and practices were only known to its members. [arcane: adjective]
Example
The book contains arcane information about ancient civilizations that is not widely known. [arcane: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Recondite and arcane are both relatively uncommon words in everyday language, but recondite is slightly more common than arcane.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between recondite and arcane?
Both recondite and arcane are formal words that are typically used in academic or intellectual contexts.
