The difference between Esoteric and Obscure

When used as adjectives, esoteric means intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest, or an enlightened inner circle, whereas obscure means dark, faint or indistinct.

Esoteric is also noun with the meaning: an esoteric doctrine or treatise.

Obscure is also verb with the meaning: to render obscure.

check bellow for the other definitions of Esoteric and Obscure

Esoteric as an adjective:

Intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest, or an enlightened inner circle.

Examples:

"The writing in this manual is very esoteric; I’d need a degree in engineering just to understand it!"
Esoteric as an adjective:

Having to do with concepts that are highly theoretical and without obvious practical application; often with mystical or religious connotations.
Esoteric as an adjective:

Confidential; private.

Examples:

"an esoteric purpose"

"an esoteric meeting"

Esoteric as a noun:

An esoteric doctrine or treatise; esoteric philosophy.
Esoteric as a noun:

One who believes, or is an initiate, in esoteric doctrines or rites.

Obscure as an adjective:

Dark, faint or indistinct.
Obscure as an adjective:

Hidden, out of sight or inconspicuous.
Obscure as an adjective:

difficult to understand.

Examples:

"an obscure passage or inscription; The speaker made obscure references to little-known literary works."
Obscure as an adjective:

not well-known.

Obscure as a verb (transitive):

To render obscure; to darken; to make dim; to keep in the dark; to hide; to make less visible, intelligible, legible, glorious, beautiful, or illustrious.
Obscure as a verb (transitive):

To hide, put out of sight etc.
Obscure as a verb (intransitive, obsolete):

To conceal oneself; to hide.

The difference between Esoteric and Obscure

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