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manifest

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verb

manifest

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective manifest contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of manifest are apparent, clear, distinct, evident, obvious, patent, and plain. While all these words mean "readily perceived or apprehended," manifest implies an external display so evident that little or no inference is required.

manifest hostility

How do apparent and evident relate to one another, in the sense of manifest?

Apparent is very close to evident except that it may imply more conscious exercise of inference.

for no apparent reason

When could clear be used to replace manifest?

The words clear and manifest can be used in similar contexts, but clear implies an absence of anything that confuses the mind or obscures the pattern.

a clear explanation

In what contexts can distinct take the place of manifest?

The meanings of distinct and manifest largely overlap; however, distinct implies such sharpness of outline or definition that no unusual effort to see or hear or comprehend is required.

a distinct refusal

When might evident be a better fit than manifest?

While in some cases nearly identical to manifest, evident implies presence of visible signs that lead one to a definite conclusion.

an evident fondness for sweets

Where would obvious be a reasonable alternative to manifest?

While the synonyms obvious and manifest are close in meaning, obvious implies such ease in discovering that it often suggests conspicuousness or little need for perspicacity in the observer.

the obvious solution

When can patent be used instead of manifest?

The words patent and manifest are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, patent applies to a cause, effect, or significant feature that is clear and unmistakable once attention has been directed to it.

patent defects

When is plain a more appropriate choice than manifest?

Although the words plain and manifest have much in common, plain suggests lack of intricacy, complexity, or elaboration.

her feelings about him are plain

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 manifest
Adjective
Despite manifest flaws, U.S. political and economic systems retain enormous strength. Jeff Sommer, New York Times, 2 May 2025 The first powerful metaphor in the book's title -- Cracks -- is manifest as Miller describes how his mother filled the cracks of the house boards to prevent summer insects from eating them all alive. Arkansas Online, 26 Apr. 2025
Verb
In those moments, Shou relies on a pronounced physicality to manifest the character’s struggle. Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 6 June 2025 Each charm in the charm clusters were chosen to manifest and spark joy and abundance. Alexandra Pastore, Footwear News, 5 June 2025
Noun
The means by which power manifests has expanded, growing more subtle, more layered and often more dangerous. Andrew Latham, The Conversation, 29 Apr. 2025 Should a return to the Women’s College World Series manifest, the genesis of all that heat merits as much attention as the heat itself. Brian Hamilton, New York Times, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for manifest
Recent Examples of Synonyms for manifest
Adjective
  • This was especially evident this year by the numerous automakers participating in the three classes—Hypercar, LMP2, and LMGT3.
    Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 16 June 2025
  • His contrition and regret were evident both through his words and his body language.
    Luke Smith, New York Times, 16 June 2025
Verb
  • Diary entries written by Luigi Mangione reveal the now 27-year-old’s detailed thinking before the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson last year, a new court filing shows.
    Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 5 June 2025
  • Beyond the To-Do List Host Erik Fisher interviews productivity experts and practitioners, revealing the real-world tactics that help people achieve their goals and get things done.
    Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
Verb
  • Lindbergh, the tall, fresh-faced Midwesterner, embodied a new American archetype: the Lone Eagle.
    David Rooney June 5, Literary Hub, 5 June 2025
  • In curating the show, Moore sought to elevate artists whose work embodies this tension while also offering something tender, vulnerable, and defiant.
    Okla Jones, Essence, 5 June 2025
Noun
  • If Iran retaliates and tensions escalate further, the index could experience additional selling pressure as investors remain risk-averse.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
  • In stock markets abroad, indexes slumped across Europe and Asia.
    Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2025
Noun
  • The ride also was known for its dramatic 17-story, straight-up lift hill right out of the loading station.
    Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 June 2025
  • On the other side was a walkway leading to a loading dock.
    Jon Schuppe, NBC news, 24 May 2025
Adjective
  • When asked where Jean lived, Joseph gave an address that police later identified as Roseau’s, an apparent building on Snyder Ave.
    Roni Jacobson, New York Daily News, 15 June 2025
  • The noted fan was seen rocking the team’s cap in St. Peter’s Square this week in an apparent nod to the upcoming celebration.
    Michael Loria, USA Today, 14 June 2025
Verb
  • The internal shelf is perfect for stashing everyday essentials while a few external shelves give you the option to display a few decorative items according to your style.
    Belle DuChene, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 June 2025
  • Although each of their first-rounders this decade now has made the majors, to this point only Neto has displayed star potential.
    Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2025
Verb
  • The Senate holds a slim majority, and at least four Senators, including Paul, have publicly expressed concerns over parts of the bill (the others are Ron Johnson, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski).
    Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • The urgency expressed Monday surrounding securing additional border resources comes as Mr. Trump called for the National Guard to enforce order in the L.A. area amid protests over activity by ICE, prompting a clash with California Gov. Gavin Newsom.
    Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 9 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Manifest.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/manifest. Accessed 20 Jun. 2025.

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