Obvious: Meaning, Examples, and Usage Tips

Meaning 1：very clear (obvious)

obvious 🔊

/ˈɒb.vi.əs/

adj.

Very easy to see, notice, or understand; something that doesn‘t require much thought to realize.

Obvious lightbulb moment in office setting

very clear 🔊

➕

/ˈvɛri klɪr/

adj.

Something that is so evident or easily perceived that no explanation or reasoning is needed; it stands out unmistakably.

📁 Category：Language Evolution 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'obvius' (in the way), from ob- (toward) + via (way).

💡 Mnemonic

Think: 'Oh, be VIsible! If it's OBVIOUS, you can't miss it.'

📖 Example

After looking at my calendar, my smart assistant gave me the obvious advice: get more sleep. 🔊 After looking at my calendar, my smart assistant gave me the obvious advice: get more sleep.

🔗 Collocations

obvious choice – A choice that is clear and easy to make

obvious reason – A reason that is very apparent and needs little explanation

obvious solution – A solution that is easily seen or understood

🔄 Synonyms

clear (adj.) – Easy to perceive, understand, or interpret

evident (adj.) – Plain or obvious; clearly seen or understood

apparent (adj.) – Clearly visible or understood; obvious

🚫 Antonyms

subtle (adj.) – So delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze or describe

unclear (adj.) – Not easy to see, hear, or understand

vague (adj.) – Of uncertain, indefinite, or unclear character or meaning

🌱 Derivatives

obviously (adv.) – In a way that is easily perceived or understood; clearly

obviousness (n.) – The quality or state of being obvious

📖 Cultural Story

From Latin 'obvius' (in the way). Originally meant 'lying in the path', later shifted to 'easily seen'. In ancient Rome, anything in the road was obvious.