intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest, beyond ordinary understanding; mysterious

Formal and Informal Expressions of esoteric

In different contexts, you can replace 'esoteric' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'abstruse, arcane, recondite' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'hard to understand, mysterious' is a commonplace synonym.

esoteric: Explore its Definition & Usage

esoteric Definition

1intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest
2beyond ordinary understanding; mysterious

Using esoteric: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "esoteric" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The professor's lectures on quantum mechanics were too esoteric for most students.
Example
The author's writing style is often criticized for being too esoteric.
Example
The group's beliefs are considered esoteric and not widely accepted.

esoteric Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for esoteric

Antonyms for esoteric

accessible
understandable
comprehensible

Phrases with esoteric

esoteric knowledge
knowledge that is intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest
Example
The book contains esoteric knowledge about ancient civilizations.
esoteric language
language that is difficult to understand because it is intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest
Example
The article was written in esoteric language that only experts could understand.
esoteric practices
practices that are intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest
Example
The monastery is known for its esoteric practices and rituals.

Origins of esoteric

from Greek 'esōterikos', meaning 'belonging to an inner circle'

📌

Summary: esoteric in Brief

The term 'esoteric' [ˌesəˈterɪk] refers to knowledge, language, or practices that are intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with specialized knowledge or interest. It can also refer to something beyond ordinary understanding or mysterious. Examples include the professor's lectures on quantum mechanics and the author's writing style. The phrase 'esoteric knowledge' denotes knowledge that is intended for a small group, while 'esoteric language' refers to language that is difficult to understand.