Esoteric-Exoteric | Commonly Confused Words
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Master confusing words with ease

Esoteric vs. Exoteric

Esoteric

/ˌesəˈterɪk/
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:

etymology
  • Esoteric refers to something that is only understood by a select, knowledgeable group of people.
  • Exoteric is used for something that is simple enough to be understood by the general public.
  • Remember, esoteric is more "exclusive" and starts with eso while exoteric is more "expansive" and starts with exo.
  • Esoteric often relates to specialized knowledge or interests, whereas exoteric relates to ordinary or practical information.
  • Think of esoteric as what you whisper and exoteric as what you broadcast.
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