Abstruse
hardNegative toneab-STROOS
adjective
Definition
Difficult to understand; obscure
Memory hook
AB-STRUCE: The truth is pushed AWAY (ab) -- abstruse ideas are hidden and hard to grasp.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The philosopher's abstruse theories were difficult for students to grasp.”
“His abstruse explanation only confused matters further.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The philosopher's ______ theories were difficult for students to grasp.”
Show answer
abstruse
Categories
GRE Tip
Abstruse is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "obscure" or "esoteric" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "clear".
Related GRE Words
recondite
Little known; abstruse; dealing with very profound, difficult, or specialized subject matter
esoteric
Intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with specialized knowledge
arcane
Understood by few; mysterious or secret
cryptic
Having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure
obfuscate
To render obscure, unclear, or unintelligible
opaque
Not able to be seen through; not transparent; difficult to understand
Master abstruse and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.