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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective conspicuous differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of conspicuous are noticeable, outstanding, prominent, remarkable, salient, and striking. While all these words mean "attracting notice or attention," conspicuous applies to something that is obvious and unavoidable to the sight or mind.

conspicuous bureaucratic waste

In what contexts can noticeable take the place of conspicuous?

The meanings of noticeable and conspicuous largely overlap; however, noticeable applies to something unlikely to escape observation.

a piano recital with no noticeable errors

When can outstanding be used instead of conspicuous?

Although the words outstanding and conspicuous have much in common, outstanding applies to something that rises above and excels others of the same kind.

honored for her outstanding contributions to science

Where would prominent be a reasonable alternative to conspicuous?

The words prominent and conspicuous can be used in similar contexts, but prominent applies to something commanding notice by standing out from its surroundings or background.

a doctor who occupies a prominent position in the town

When would remarkable be a good substitute for conspicuous?

While in some cases nearly identical to conspicuous, remarkable applies to something so extraordinary or exceptional as to invite comment.

a film of remarkable intelligence and wit

When might salient be a better fit than conspicuous?

While the synonyms salient and conspicuous are close in meaning, salient applies to something of significance that merits the attention given it.

the salient points of the speech

When is striking a more appropriate choice than conspicuous?

The synonyms striking and conspicuous are sometimes interchangeable, but striking applies to something that impresses itself powerfully and deeply upon the observer's mind or vision.

the region's striking poverty

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of conspicuous And with the increasing presence of the conspicuous energy generators comes some curiosity. Karl Schneider, IndyStar, 21 Sep. 2025 Rat tunnels, which may have an opening that’s 3 inches in diameter, are found in less conspicuous spots, such as near wood piles. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 21 Sep. 2025 Yet, on this night, both Glenn and I were able to see it as a conspicuous patch of light. Joe Rao, Space.com, 17 Sep. 2025 Even royals apparently appreciate the brand’s combination of understated style and conspicuous thrift. Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for conspicuous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for conspicuous
Adjective
  • As far as the sustainability of humanity's energy consumption, Cohan said, the world is on the verge of making noticeable gains in protecting the environment from fossil fuel use.
    Alana Wise, NPR, 9 Oct. 2025
  • The immediate post-facial glow was noticeable, but the more gradual improvements came from regular, at-home use.
    Samantha Leal, StyleCaster, 9 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The Seahawks put the Bucs in obvious situations, then offered little resistance.
    Michael-Shawn Dugar, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025
  • One obvious strategy to try to tackle the staffing problems is to close more prisons, and this year’s state budget authorized Governor Hochul to close up to three more.
    Jennifer Gonnerman, New Yorker, 6 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Gruda, signed from Mainz for £25million in August 2024, has been more prominent in Hurzeler’s attacking plans in his second season at the club, scoring twice and contributing two assists across eight appearances in the Premier League and the Carabao Cup.
    Andy Naylor, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025
  • As far as politicians go, few have earned as much respect among Palestinians as Marwan Barghouti, the most prominent Palestinian prisoner who is serving five life sentences in an Israeli jail.
    Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • What this means for America Legal experts predict Comey will be acquitted – the evidence is weak and the political interference is blatant.
    Cassandra Burke Robertson, The Conversation, 8 Oct. 2025
  • So what's up with all the blatant disrespect and body-shaming for the man infamously known for wearing another player as a backpack, and smashing heads and eating them?
    Sydney Bucksbaum, Entertainment Weekly, 2 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Instead, Reeves became Estragon, the more simplistic and long-suffering of the duo, while Winter tackled Vladimir, the more commanding and verbose character.
    Brent Lang, Variety, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Since the late 90s, Jungen has forged a name for himself internationally through his commanding sculptural practice.
    News Desk, Artforum, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The Blazers have youth on their side but a glaring lack of offensive talent.
    John Hollinger, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025
  • The think-tank Brookings Institution offers a more glaring estimate of over seven million Americans whose work is directly supported by federal contracts or grants.
    Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The Dodgers’ mood after Game 2 was one of jubilation, a remarkable conclusion to an enthralling game.
    Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025
  • The Sennheiser Momentum 4 are top-level headphones, boasting a remarkable 60-hour battery life, rich and detailed sound, and adaptive ANC that just works, all while being light enough for all-day use.
    Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 7 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Byrne was at the top of Bronstein’s list to play Linda, a role requiring someone who could balance raw, dramatic emotion with a bit of humor.
    Rachel Brodsky, Rolling Stone, 8 Oct. 2025
  • Glenn Close Glenn Close opted for a dramatic jumpsuit, wearing a shimmering look that was contrasted by her black opera gloves.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Conspicuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/conspicuous. Accessed 13 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on conspicuous

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