Basic Details
Word: Obtuse
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Not sharp or pointed; also, slow to understand or perceive; dull.
Synonyms: Blunt, dull, slow-witted
Antonyms: Sharp, acute, quick-witted
Idioms and Phrases
- Speak in obtuse terms: To communicate in a confusing or unclear way. Example: "His explanation was so complicated that I felt he was speaking in obtuse terms."
- Obtuse angle: A term in geometry referring to an angle that is more than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees. Example: "In our geometry class, we learned how to identify an obtuse angle in a triangle."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The obtuse knife was not suitable for cutting vegetables.
Example 2: She felt obtuse when she couldnt understand the complex instructions.
Example 3: The teacher explained the concept again to ensure that even the most obtuse student would understand it.
Fun Fact
The word "obtuse" comes from the Latin word "obtusus," which means 'blunt' or 'dull,' and has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe shapes, angles, and mental sharpness.
Famous Quote
"The only thing worse than being completely unaware is being obtuse." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "obtuse" mean?
a) Sharp and pointed
b) Not sharp; slow to understand
c) Very quick and intelligent
d) Bright and lively
Answer: b) Not sharp; slow to understand
2. Which of these is a synonym of "obtuse"?
a) Quick-witted
b) Sharp
c) Dull
d) Intelligent
Answer: c) Dull
3. Which of these is an antonym of "obtuse"?
a) Blunt
b) Dull
c) Sharp
d) Confused
Answer: c) Sharp
4. Which sentence uses "obtuse" correctly?
a) The obtuse blade cut through the apple smoothly.
b) The student seemed obtuse in class today.
c) The obtuse student solved the math problem quickly.
d) The obtuse tree grew tall and straight.
Answer: b) The student seemed obtuse in class today.
5. Which idiom is related to the word "obtuse"?
a) Speak in obtuse terms
b) As sharp as a tack
c) A straight arrow
d) Hit the nail on the head
Answer: a) Speak in obtuse terms
