Words / B1

OBV-ee-uh-slee/ˈɒbviəsli/

Obviously means in a way that is easy to see. Obvious is already in the dictionary. Clearly is a close twin. Of course is more spoken. Invigilators: the paper was obviously a resit.

Meaning

In a way that is easy to see or understand; used to say something is clear.

Examples

• “The paper was obviously a resit: the candidate number was from last series.”
• “Obviously in a speech can sound rude if you mean “you should already know”.”

Good to know

obviously + clause. Adjective: obvious. Close: clearly. Spoken twin: of course. Exams / news. Tone: can sound impatient.

Near in meaning

clearly

New