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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective obvious contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of obvious are apparent, clear, distinct, evident, manifest, patent, and plain. While all these words mean "readily perceived or apprehended," obvious implies such ease in discovering that it often suggests conspicuousness or little need for perspicacity in the observer.

the obvious solution

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

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

for no apparent reason

When is clear a more appropriate choice than obvious?

The synonyms clear and obvious are sometimes interchangeable, 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 obvious?

While in some cases nearly identical to obvious, distinct implies such sharpness of outline or definition that no unusual effort to see or hear or comprehend is required.

a distinct refusal

When is it sensible to use evident instead of obvious?

Although the words evident and obvious have much in common, evident implies presence of visible signs that lead one to a definite conclusion.

an evident fondness for sweets

When might manifest be a better fit than obvious?

The words manifest and obvious are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, manifest implies an external display so evident that little or no inference is required.

manifest hostility

When would patent be a good substitute for obvious?

While the synonyms patent and obvious are close in meaning, patent applies to a cause, effect, or significant feature that is clear and unmistakable once attention has been directed to it.

patent defects

When could plain be used to replace obvious?

In some situations, the words plain and obvious are roughly equivalent. However, 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 obvious The intention of many of these pages is obvious from their names. Clare Duffy, CNN Money, 16 May 2025 The signs are obvious: The future audiences for the new streaming services will come from the subscriber base of the old-school TV networks, whether the parties on either side of the equation admit it or not. Brian Steinberg, Variety, 16 May 2025 The Lakers’ obvious needs of upgrading their big man rotation and wing depth – which Pelinka directly addressed before the season ended – have led to rumors about the Lakers possibly including Reaves in a trade to address one of their roster/personnel holes. Khobi Price, Oc Register, 15 May 2025 But the ‘Harry Potter’ films, ‘Lord Of The Rings,’ ‘Schindler’s List,’ ‘Mission Impossible,’ ‘Gladiator,’ ‘Aviator’ and so many more are U.S films that shot overseas for obvious reasons. Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 5 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for obvious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for obvious
Adjective
  • That license is currently set to expire on May 27, but sources indicate it may now be extended by 60 days — an apparent diplomatic concession aimed at easing tensions and fostering future cooperation.
    Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 21 May 2025
  • Experts said the safety reports reviewed by CNN illustrate the real-world consequences of the FAA’s apparent inability to address these equipment challenges.
    Melanie Hicken, CNN Money, 21 May 2025
Adjective
  • Questions about the practice were exacerbated by litigants’ blatant forum shopping, filing lawsuits in liberal areas when seeking to block Republican Presidents and in conservative jurisdictions to challenge the policies of Democratic Presidents.
    Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 17 May 2025
  • Since the time of de Blasio’s blatant pilfering, in September 2019, prices have risen 25% (actually 24.94% according to the Consumer Price Index) so an equal amount in interest should have been assessed against him.
    New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • Toxic takeover completed a few months before, the Glazer brothers — Joel, Avie and Bryan — were attending their first match at Old Trafford as owners of Manchester United and a new way of thinking was evident.
    Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 11 May 2025
  • Acidity dominants, as with many 2024 Bordeaux wines, but complexity is evident in this light juice with fine flavors of young red fruit.
    Tom Mullen, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, Towns amplifies the style their franchise player likes to rock while also addressing a glaring positional need.
    Mat Issa, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
  • The lackluster performance during Denver’s 31-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills, when the team’s running backs gained only 35 rushing yards on 11 carries, serves as the most glaring example.
    Nick Kosmider, New York Times, 11 May 2025
Adjective
  • Beyond the physical abuse, Cassie endured a steady drumbeat of insidious threats that sent an unmistakable message: the violence could escalate at any moment.
    Lauren Hersh, New York Daily News, 21 May 2025
  • The unmistakable message: in Welch’s House of Representatives, Democratic moderates who think for themselves and question their own party’s orthodoxies are unwelcome.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • Subtle but clear involuntary changes allowed for the patient to have their condition plotted on a scale – something that takes the onus away from less reliable self-reporting.
    Bronwyn Thompson, New Atlas, 11 May 2025
  • Whether the public will give her reports and remarks the same credence as those of prior Surgeons General is less clear.
    Arthur L. Kellermann, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025
Adjective
  • Pony Bead Pumpkins Ideal for the autumnal season, this adorable and straightforward seasonal craft uses pipe cleaners and beads to create three-dimensional pumpkins perfect for displaying on the mantle or your Thanksgiving tablescape.
    Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 May 2025
  • Because the path to parenthood isn't straightforward for everyone, workplaces can transform this journey through supportive policies.
    Cynthia McEwen, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • One of the most effective ways to do this is by specializing in client segments with distinct financial needs, values, and life experiences.
    Jason Katz, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025
  • The other six have also released their own albums, each's discography highlights the distinct and individual talents in BTS.
    Olivia Munson, USA Today, 17 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Obvious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obvious. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

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