Words / C2

es-uh-TER-ik/ˌesəˈterɪk/

Esoteric means only a small circle with special knowledge is likely to follow it. Use it instead of difficult when the barrier is insider knowledge, not mere hardness. Close cousin of recondite; both belong in criticism, not in the pub. In speech say too specialist or for experts.

Meaning

Likely to be understood by only a small group with special knowledge.

Examples

• “The lecture was too esoteric for beginners.”
• “The jokes were esoteric even for regular listeners.”
• “Cryptography can look esoteric until you need it.”

Good to know

For a small informed group. Everyday: specialist / obscure.

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