Obtuseness - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Obtuseness refers to the quality of being slow to understand or perceive something, often due to a lack of sharpness or intelligence. It can also describe dullness in manner or expression.
Definition:
The quality of being slow to understand or perceive; lack of sharpness or intelligence.
Synonyms:
dullness, stupidity, denseness, dimness
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
sharpness, acuteness
Common Collocations:
sheer obtuseness, intellectual obtuseness, frustrating obtuseness
Derivatives:
obtuse, obtusely
Usage Tips:
Use "obtuseness" to describe someone's inability to grasp simple ideas or perceive subtlety in a situation.
Common Phrases:
feigned obtuseness, deliberate obtuseness, willful obtuseness
Etymology:
From Latin "obtusus" (blunted), via Old French "obtus," meaning dull or not sharp in intellect or perception.
Examples:
- 1. His obtuseness made the explanation tedious.
- 2. She sighed at his persistent obtuseness during the meeting.
- 3. The teacher struggled with the student's obtuseness about basic concepts.
- 4. His obtuseness in social situations often led to misunderstandings.