obvious - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
obvious Word Meanings
- easily seen or understood
- clear and apparent
- certain or definite
obvious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
obvious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɒbvɪəs/
US
/ˈɑbvɪəs/
obvious Word Etymology
ob- = toward; via- = way, road; meaning something that is clear to the way it is seen. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Think of a vast, straightforward road that is so clearly visible that there's no doubt about the direction.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I hold the page steady and move my eyes along the line. I push my attention a little, adjusting the page until one point stands out. The more I adjust, the clearer it feels, like the ink is speaking plainly. When that point lands without extra searching, I keep the rhythm and sense that it's obvious.
Real Context
Obvious is a common adjective used to describe something that is easy to see or understand, so clear that there is little doubt. It can refer to appearances, facts, or conclusions that stand out in a straightforward way. In everyday talk you might say the solution is obvious after the clues are presented, or that there is an obvious flaw in the plan. The core idea is visibility and intelligibility: if something is obvious, people can grasp it without much effort. Etymology: ob- means toward and via- means road, which suggests a path to the truth that is clearly visible. Memory image: a wide, straight road with unambiguous signs.
Usage Reminders
- Reserve obvious for things clearly seen or easily understood.
- Don't overuse in formal writing; use 'evident' or 'apparent' when you want a softer tone.
- Use 'it is obvious that' with a following clause (it is obvious that...).
- Compare with 'apparent' to convey nuance (slightly less strong).
- Be mindful of tone; calling something obvious can sound blunt in conversation.
- Pair with data or reasoning to reinforce the clarity.
Common Misconceptions
- Obvious = not debatable; it always means truth.
- It only describes things you can see with your eyes, not ideas or reasoning.
- If something is obvious, it will always be obvious to everyone.
- Obvious is a neutral, formal word; it is never strong.
- Obvious and 'apparent' are always interchangeable in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, obvious flags strong clarity but can sound blunt if overused.
Learning Tips
- Compare obvious with apparent to feel nuance
- Use obvious for things that are clearly seen or deduced
- Avoid overusing in formal writing
- Pair with 'that' for clausal emphasis (it is obvious that...)
- Check tone with a colleague to avoid sounding blunt
- Practice with data or evidence to reinforce clarity
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which of the following words is the opposite of 'obvious'?
A.Quiet
B.Hidden
C.Nice
D.Tired
Step 2: Usage
In a sentence, how would you use the word 'obvious'?
A.The cat is obvious about its intentions.
B.The obviousness of the situation surprised me.
C.She obviously likes to read books.
D.It was so obvious that I passed the test.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'obvious'?
A.Dark
B.Clear
C.Funny
D.Happy
Step 4: Opposite Words
Can you give a real-life example of something that is obvious?
A.Driving on the right side of the road is obvious in the UK.
B.The mystery novel had an obvious ending.
C.The answer to 2+2 is obvious.
D.The weather is always obvious in the winter.
Step 5: Mastery
How would you describe something that is not obvious?
A.Angry
B.Bright
C.Beautiful
D.Hidden
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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