# abstrusely

CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abstrusely
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

in a way that is very difficult to understand. You use this to describe writing or speech that is so complex it feels like a secret code.

For teachers: in a manner that is obscure, difficult to understand, or deliberately vague. Often used to describe intellectual or literary styles that avoid clarity.

## Examples

- The professor spoke abstrusely about the new theory.
- The legal documents were written abstrusely to confuse the public and hide the company's true intentions.
- The philosopher's later works became increasingly abstrusely written, leading many scholars to speculate that his declining health affected his ability to communicate clearly.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.