esoteric

/,esou'terik/ Cách viết khác : (esoterical) /,esou'terikəl/

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Word: Esoteric

Part of Speech: Adjective

Basic Meaning: The word "esoteric" describes something that is intended for or understood by only a small group of people who have special knowledge or interest. It often refers to ideas, practices, or knowledge that are not easily understood by the general public.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: Use "esoteric" when you want to talk about topics, ideas, or practices that are complex and not widely known or understood.
• How to use: You can use "esoteric" to describe various subjects, such as philosophies, practices, or even hobbies that require specialized knowledge.

Example Sentence:

• "The lecture on quantum physics was so esoteric that most of the audience struggled to keep up with the complex ideas."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "esoteric" can be used in academic or philosophical discussions to refer to theories or concepts that are not mainstream.

Word Variants:

1. Esotericism (noun): The quality of being esoteric.
   • Example: "Esotericism involves teachings that are meant to be understood by a select few."
2. Esotericist (noun): A person who studies or adheres to esoteric knowledge.
   • Example: "As an esotericist, she focuses on mystical interpretations of ancient texts."

Different Meanings:

While "esoteric" primarily refers to knowledge that is obscure or limited to a small group, it can also imply: - Mysterious or secret: Something that is not easily understood or is hidden. - Example: "The ancient rituals were esoteric, known only to the high priests."

Synonyms:

• Abstruse
• Arcane
• Cryptic
• Recondite
• Inscrutable

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "In the know": This idiom refers to someone who has inside information or is part of a select group that understands esoteric knowledge.
  • Example: "Only those in the know could understand the director's intentions behind the film."

Academic

Adjective

1. confined to and understandable by only an enlightened inner circle
   • a compilation of esoteric philosophical theories