SINCE 1828

An Encyclopædia Britannica Company

the obvious

noun

Definition of the obvious

: something that is easy to understand or recognize

You are stating the obvious. Tell me something I don't already know.

Try to look beyond the obvious.

Word by Word Definitions

obvious play

: being in the way or in front
: easily discovered, seen, or understood

See the full definition of obvious

Seen and Heard

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WORD OF THE DAY

cathexis

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investment of mental or emotional energy

Words at Play

Words from Letters in the Greek Alphabet

When English borrows from another alphabet

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'Preventive' or 'Preventative'?

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Words We're Watching: 'Bluebeard,' the Verb

No, it's not a coiffure trend

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Where 'Cliff-hangers' Come From

You're on the edge of your seat

Ask the Editors

2017 Word of the Year: Behind the Scenes

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Words of the Year: 1066

Or, Why Pig Meat is Called 'Pork' and Cow Meat is Called 'Beef'

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Literally

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

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Is Singular 'They' a Better Choice?

The awkward case of 'his or her'

Word Games

Odd Habits and Quirks Quiz

Test your knowledge of strange human behaviors.

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More Confusing Words—Quiz

How many of these commonly confused words do you know?

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True or False?

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.

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