Obtuse: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is slow to understand or not sharp in perception. Often considered slightly formal and can be used in both everyday and professional contexts.

• He was being deliberately obtuse, pretending he didn't understand her sarcasm.
• The instructions were clear, but he remained obtuse and couldn't follow them.

Typically used when talking about an object that is not sharp. It can also refer to a person who speaks in a very direct or insensitive way, often perceived as rude.

• The knife was too blunt to cut through the meat.
• Her blunt criticism hurt his feelings.

Used to describe an object that is not sharp or something that is not interesting or lively. It can also refer to a person who lacks sharpness in intelligence.

• The scissors are too dull to cut the paper.
• The lecture was so dull that many students fell asleep.
• He was a dull student, rarely contributing to class discussions.

Refers to a person who is slow in understanding or thinking. It typically has a negative connotation and is often used in informal settings.

• She is kind, but a bit slow-witted when it comes to solving puzzles.
• His colleagues find him slow-witted, especially during meetings.

Used to describe someone who is slow to understand or perceive things. It implies a lack of sharpness or quickness in thought or perception.

• He was so obtuse that he couldn't grasp the simple concept the teacher was explaining.
• Her obtuse remarks made it clear she wasn't following the conversation.

Often used to describe an instrument or object that is not sharp. It can also describe a way of speaking that is very direct and sometimes rude.

• The knife was too blunt to cut through the meat.
• Her blunt comments hurt his feelings.

Generally used to describe something that has a curved, smooth shape without sharp edges or angles. Can also refer to a well-balanced or holistic quality.

• The artist preferred to create sculptures with rounded edges.
• She has a well-rounded education, excelling in both arts and sciences.

Typically describes something that has been made less sharp or has lost its edge due to wear or damage. It can also describe a decrease in intensity or sensitivity.

• The pencil's tip was blunted after so much writing.
• Years of hardship had blunted his emotions.