Difficult to understand, intended for or understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest.
Examples:
Her interests included studying esoteric bookbinding techniques.The philosopher's esoteric ideas were hard to grasp at first.He joined a club focusing on esoteric chess strategies.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Exoteric
Related to ideas or knowledge that are meant for the general public and not restricted to a few people
Examples:
The lecturer presented an exoteric view to the masses.His writings are simple and exoteric in style.The course was designed to be exoteric and accessible.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
Esoteric is like a secret club, meant only for those in the know.
Exoteric is open and accessible to everyone, no special knowledge is needed.
Remember that esoteric knowledge usually requires initiation or specialization.
Exoteric might remind you of external or public, being out there for anyone.
Consider esoteric as internal, with inner meaning not easily grasped by everyone.