Definition

The quality of being difficult to understand or complex, often because it involves deep or obscure ideas.

Example

The abstruseness of the theory made it difficult for many to understand.

Conversation

Have you read that book on philosophy yet?

Not yet, but I've heard it's filled with abstruseness.

Yeah, I think it might be too complicated for me.

Same here! I prefer something a bit more straightforward.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Abstruseness is formed from "abstrusus" (meaning hidden or concealed) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word refers to the quality of being difficult to understand or hidden from comprehension.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'hidden' or 'concealed' — that's what 'abstruseness' means, the state of being hard to grasp.

Visually Confused Words