abstruse
adjective C2
Plain meaning
so difficult or technical that most people struggle to understand it
Exam-register meaning
used for arguments, theories, or explanations that are highly complex and not easily accessible
In context
naturalThe manual was so abstruse that even the engineer had to read it twice.
examThe author criticises the policy document for using abstruse terminology that excludes ordinary citizens.
Common collocations
abstruse theoryabstruse argumentabstruse explanation
Watch out
Do not use abstruse to mean simply “boring”. Something can be boring without being difficult to understand.
Word family
abstrusely (adverb)abstruseness (noun)