Obtuse Meaning and Definition
Obtuse
Pronunciation
/ˈɒbtʃuːs/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A term describing something that is blunt or dull, lacking sharpness or quickness of mind or faculty; not acute.
Examples
1. “The obtuse response made it difficult to continue the conversation.”
2. “The obtuse angle made it hard to cut the fabric.
Synonyms
1. Blunt
2. Dull
3. Slow
Antonyms
1. Acute
2. Sharp
3. Quick
Etymology
The word “obtuse” originates from the Latin word “obtusus,” meaning “blunted” or ” dull.” It has been used in the English language since the 14th century.
Usage Notes
When using the word “obtuse” to describe someone’s response, it’s often used in a negative sense, implying that the person is being unclear or unresponsive.
For angles, the term is used to describe a shape that is not acute or sharp.
Additional Information
The word “obtuse” has been used in various contexts, including mathematics, philosophy, and psychology. In mathematics, an obtuse angle is one greater than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees. In philosophy, the term is used to describe a type of reasoning that is unsound or illogical. In psychology, the term can describe a lack of emotional sensitivity or awareness.
The word “obtuse” is often contrasted with its antonym, “acute,” which describes something that is sharp or quick. This contrast highlights the importance of clarity and precision in communication.
Mathematically speaking, an obtuse angle can be used to describe a variety of shapes, including obtuse triangles and obtuse polygons. These shapes often have unique properties and characteristics.
In art and design, the use of obtuse angles can create dynamic and interesting compositions. They can also be used to create contrast and add visual interest to a design.
Cultural References
The word “obtuse” has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. In the novel “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky, the character Raskolnikov is described as having an “obtuse” personality.
In the movie “The Silence of the Lambs,” the character Hannibal Lecter is described as having an “obtuse” smile.
Idiomatic Expressions
“Blunt as an obtuse knife” is an idiomatic expression that describes someone or something as blunt or lacking sharpness.
Collocations
The word “obtuse” often collocates with words that describe lack or deficiency. Some common collocations include:
Obtuse angle
Obtuse criticism
Obtuse response
Obtuse personality
Frequency of Use
The word “obtuse” is not as commonly used as some other words in the English language. However, it is still a useful term for describing a lack of sharpness or clarity.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word “obtuse” include:
Obtusee
Obtusey
Obtusey-ness