Words / C2

OBV-ee-ayt/ˈɒbvieɪt/

To obviate is to remove a need or a problem so that it never arises. Formal writers prefer it to avoid when the design itself makes the extra step unnecessary. In speech say that makes it unnecessary or you will not need to; obviate is for papers and reports.

Meaning

To remove a need or a problem, so that it never arises.

Examples

• “A clear map obviates the need to ask for directions.”
• “Online booking obviates the queue.”
• “A footnote would obviate a long digression.”

Good to know

obviate the need to… Everyday: make unnecessary.

New