I hope this isn't going to be a dumb question...but what is the difference betwwen magic and elemental attacks (i.e. the difference between resist frost and resist magic)?

My initial thought is that magic resistance resists frost, shock, and fire spells, but not as good as a specific elemental resistance. If that makes any sense lol

I want to resist the spells inflicted by enemy magi (especially frost and fire spells).

Thanks to anyone who can help!

They are one and the same. Magic Resistance provides resistance for Fire, Frost, and Shock. The values typically for Magic Resist are lower than a specific Elemental Resist, like Resist Fire. You might Enchant or find an item with 40% Fire Resist, whereas with Magic Resist it might be 15%.

Your best bet for resistance is to use the Lord or Atronach stone. Enchant your Ring and Amulet with Resist Magic from the Shield of Solitude. Make up for the Fire and Frost on specific items that you can Enchant those with. Grab the Resist perks in Alteration if you really need to and if you are say going to be a caster as you will already invest in this tree for Silent Casting probably.

In short, Elemental is usually used to describe a specific element and Magic is used to describe all 3.

This confirms what I suspected. Bretons rule!