Recondite Meaning and Definition
Recondite
Pronunciation
/ˈrɛkəndaɪt/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Difficult to understand; obscure or esoteric. Recondite ideas or concepts are often complex and require specialized knowledge to comprehend.
Examples
- The recondite meaning of the poem was lost on most readers.
- Her recondite research on quantum physics was highly respected in academic circles.
Synonyms
- Obscure
- Esoteric
- Abstruse
Antonyms
- Transparent
- Accessible
- Clear
Additional Information
Recondite concepts often require a high level of expertise or specialized knowledge to grasp. They may be complex, abstract, or deal with advanced ideas. In many fields, such as science, philosophy, or mathematics, recondite ideas are the foundation of innovation and progress. However, they can also be difficult to communicate to a broader audience, making their understanding and appreciation challenging. In literature and art, recondite themes or symbolism can add depth and complexity to a work, but may also alienate readers or viewers who lack the necessary knowledge or context.
Etiymology
The word “recondite” comes from the Latin “reconditus,” meaning “hidden or concealed.” This root is also related to the word “recond,” which means “to hide or conceal.” Over time, the word “recondite” has evolved to encompass a range of meanings, including obscure, esoteric, or difficult to understand.
Usage Notes
Recondite is often used to describe complex or abstract ideas, theories, or concepts. It can also be used to describe something that is difficult to understand or interpret, such as a poem or a work of art. When using the word “recondite,” it is essential to consider the context and audience, as it may be unfamiliar to some readers or listeners.
Cultural References
Recondite has appeared in various cultural contexts, including literature, art, and music. For example, the poet T.S. Eliot was known for his recondite poetry, which often explored complex themes and symbolism. In music, the composer Arnold Schoenberg was famous for his recondite atonal compositions, which challenged traditional musical conventions.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Recondite knowledge: specialized or esoteric knowledge that is difficult to access or understand.
- Recondite meaning: a hidden or obscure meaning that requires interpretation or analysis.
Related Words or Phrases
- Obscure
- Esoteric
- Abstruse
- Complex
- Abstract
Collocations
- Recondite ideas
- Recondite theories
- Recondite concepts
- Recondite meanings
Frequency of Use
Recondite is a relatively uncommon word in everyday conversation, but it is more commonly used in academic, literary, or technical contexts. According to the Corpus of Contemporary American English, recondite is used approximately 0.05 times per million words.
Common Misspellings
- Recondiete
- Recondit
- Condit