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When we communicate, we often reach for the word “obvious” to describe something that is clear or easily understood. However, our language is rich with synonyms that can broaden our expression and add nuance to our sentences. Depending on the context, we might choose a synonym for “obvious” that adds a layer of meaning or fits the rhythm of our prose more effectively.
Obvious Synonyms
What Is “Obvious”?
“Obvious” is an adjective that describes something easily perceived or understood, leaving no room for doubt or ambiguity. It is something clear and apparent that requires no elaborate explanation.
List of Synonyms for Obvious
- Apparent
- Clear
- Evident
- Manifest
- Plain
- Patent
- Transparent
- Unmistakable
- Palpable
- Conspicuous
- Pronounced
- Noticeable
- Recognizable
- Undeniable
- Unambiguous
- Visible
- Distinct
- Blatant
- Flagrant
- Glaring
- Overt
- Self-evident
- Explicit
- Barefaced
- Lucid
- Perspicuous
- Discernible
- Indisputable
- Unquestionable
- Incontrovertible
- Unarguable
- Unassailable
- Uncontestable
- Definite
- Decisive
- Determinate
- Straightforward
- Exposed
- Open
- Bald
- Stark
- Striking
- Salient
- Prominent
- Bold
- Distinguishable
- Observable
- Beyond doubt
- Beyond question
- As plain as day
- As clear as crystal
- Standing out a mile
- Sticking out like a sore thumb
- Right under one’s nose
- In broad daylight
- Clear-cut
- Unequivocal
- Pellucid
- Limpid
- Nonambiguous
- Uncovered
- Unhidden
- Unveiled
- Revealed
- Unshrouded
- Unobscured
- Unclouded
- Crystal clear
- Understandable
- Comprehensible
- Intelligible
- Accessible
- Apprehensible
- Graspable
- Perceptible
- Tangible
- Detectable
- Discernable
- Perceivable
- Axial
- Direct
- Out in the open
- As clear as day
- Without a doubt
- Beyond dispute
- Irrefutable
- Unimpeachable
- Unrefuted
- Inescapable
- Inevitable
- Unavoidable
- Sure
- Certain
- Positive
- Conclusive
- Final
- Ultimate
- Absolute
- Total
- Complete
- Thorough
- Perfect
- Pure
- Simple
- Easy
- Basic
- Elementary
- Plain as the nose on your face
- Written all over one’s face
- Cut-and-dried
- Black-and-white
- Open-and-shut
Types of Synonyms for Obvious
Visual Clarity
- Evident
- Visible
- Apparent
Intellectual Clarity
- Clear
- Plain
- Unmistakable
Degree of Obviousness
- Glaring
- Pronounced
- Striking
Lack of Ambiguity
- Distinct
- Unequivocal
- Unambiguous
Common Synonyms for Obvious
Obvious vs. Clear
Obvious implies something is easily perceived or understood, leaving no doubt. Clear, on the other hand, suggests there is no confusion or ambiguity about the perception or understanding of something.
- The benefits of regular exercise are obvious to anyone looking to improve their health.
- Her explanation was so clear that even a child could understand the complex concept.
Obvious vs. Evident
While obvious is understood immediately and with little effort, evident suggests that the truth or fact is visible and noticeable, possibly after some observation or reasoning.
- His frustration was obvious when he slammed the door.
- The wear on the tires was evident after the long road trip.
Obvious vs. Apparent
Obvious means it’s understood right away, while apparent could mean something seems clear based on visual cues or evidence but might require some thought or investigation.
- Her joy was obvious when she received the surprise gift.
- It became apparent that the project would exceed its deadline due to unexpected delays.
Obvious vs. Visible
Obvious conveys a sense of something that cannot be missed by the mind, while visible is more about what can physically be seen.
- The answer to the puzzle was obvious once he stopped overthinking it.
- The scar was barely visible under her makeup.
Synonyms for Obvious in Different Contexts
In Casual Conversation
- Apparent: When something is easily understood or recognized, we might say it’s apparent.
Example: It’s apparent that he loves his new job; just look at that smile. - Evident: Used when something is clear from the facts or circumstances.
Example: Her talent for singing was evident even at a young age.
In Academic Writing
- Manifest: Often used when something is clear without needing detailed explanation.
Example: The theme of the story is made manifest through the protagonist’s journey. - Patent: When an idea or fact is so clear that nobody can dispute it.
Example: The benefits of the new policy are patent to all stakeholders.
In Legal or Formal Documents
- Unmistakable: Leaving no chance of misunderstanding or doubt.
Example: The contract bears an unmistakable warning about the penalties for late payment. - Indisputable: When a fact or statement cannot be challenged or denied.
Example: The evidence presented in the case is indisputable.
In Creative Writing
- Palpable: For moments when an emotion or atmosphere is so intense that it feels almost tangible.
Example: The excitement in the air was palpable as the curtains drew back.
Absolute and Near Synonyms of Obvious
Absolute Synonyms for Obvious
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Evident | Clearly seen or understood; easily recognized. |
| Apparent | Clearly visible or understood; obvious. |
| Manifest | Readily perceived by the senses and especially by the sense of sight. |
| Palpable | Easily perceptible; noticeable; tangible. |
| Unmistakable | Not open to misunderstanding or misinterpretation. |
Near Synonyms for Obvious
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Transparent | Easily detected or seen through; readily understood. |
| Conspicuous | Easily seen or noticed; attracting attention. |
| Pronounced | Noticeable; markedly distinct. |
| Undeniable | Unable to be denied or disputed; unquestionable. |
| Recognizable | Able to be recognized or identified from previous encounters or knowledge. |
Synonyms for Obvious with Examples | Infographic
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a common synonym for something that is clearly noticeable?
When we’re looking for a common synonym for ‘obvious,’ ‘evident’ is a word that often comes to our mind. It conveys the clarity of noticing something without doubt.
How would you describe an instance when something is made very clear or evident?
We’d use the word ‘apparent’ to describe an instance when something is made unquestionably clear or evident. It’s a term that signifies obviousness to the observer.
What word would you use to express that something is flagrantly clear to see?
For something that is extremely clear to see, we might describe it as ‘unmistakable.’ This implies that there is no chance of misinterpreting what is being presented.
What’s an alternative expression for something that is readily apparent?
A synonym we’d use for something readily apparent could be ‘plain.’ It suggests that the reality or truth of the situation is straightforward and uncomplicated.
Can you suggest another term for something that can be easily recognized or understood?
Certainly, the term ‘clear’ comes to our aid when we describe something that can be easily recognized or understood. It’s straightforward and leaves little room for confusion.
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