obtusely
Definition
Adverb: 1. In a manner that is slow to understand or perceive; lacking sharpness of intellect or sensitivity. 2. In a blunt, not sharp or pointed, manner. (This meaning is less common for the adverb and is more directly related to the adjective 'obtuse' describing an angle or shape.)
Usage
The adverb 'obtusely' describes how an action is performed with a lack of mental sharpness, insight, or sensitivity. It is typically used to modify verbs related to thinking, reacting, or behaving.
Examples
- He obtusely failed to grasp the seriousness of the situation, even after repeated warnings.
- She stared obtusely at the complex diagram, unable to comprehend its meaning.
- The manager obtusely dismissed the team's innovative proposal without considering its merits.
- He had so rapaciously desired and so obtusely expected to find her alone.
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: While its primary use relates to intellect, it can be applied figuratively to describe actions lacking subtlety or finesse.
- The politician obtusely handled the delicate diplomatic issue, causing unnecessary offense.
Variants and Related Words
- Obtuse (adjective):
- Annoyingly insensitive or slow to understand.
- He was being deliberately obtuse during the discussion.
- (Of an angle) More than 90° and less than 180°.
- An obtuse triangle has one interior angle greater than 90 degrees.
- Not sharp-pointed or sharp-edged; blunt.
- Obtuseness (noun): The quality or state of being obtuse.
- His obtuseness in matters of art was frustrating.
Synonyms
- Dully
- Stupidly
- Densely
- Uncomprehendingly
- Insensitively
Antonyms
- Acutely
- Perceptively
- Shrewdly
- Sensitively
- Astutely
Related Phrases/Idioms
- To be obtuse about something: To be willfully or annoyingly slow to understand something.
- Don't be obtuse about the rules; they are clearly stated.
Adverb
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in a stupid manner
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he had so rapaciously desired and so obtusely expected to find her alone
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