Words / B1

OBV-ee-uh-s/ˈɒbviəs/

Obvious means easy to see or understand. It is obvious that… Clear is close; obvious can sound a little impatient (that’s obvious). Apparent is more formal. Obviously is a common adverb, but overusing it can sound rude. The opposite is unclear or hidden.

Meaning

Easy to see or understand.

Examples

• “It was obvious that he was tired.”
• “The answer should be obvious from the graph.”
• “Obviously, we need more time.”

Good to know

it is obvious that. Adverb: obviously (use carefully). Nearby: clear.

Near in meaning

clear

New