Meaning & Definition of word "Obvious"

Obvious

/ˈɒbvɪəs/

adjective:

  • 1. Easily perceived or understood; clear, self-evident, or apparent.
    • Example: It was obvious that she was upset when she didn't smile at anyone.
  • 2. Obsolete. Having no hidden meaning; plain.
    • Example: The obvious answer to the riddle was surprisingly overlooked.
  • 3. Evident to the observer.
    • Example: The obvious choice for the lead role was the most experienced actor.

Etymology

From Latin 'obvius', meaning 'in the way, easy to approach'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

obvious choice:

a decision that is clear and easy to make.

obvious answer:

a response that is immediately clear and does not require much thought.

it goes without saying:

something that is so obvious that it doesn't need to be mentioned.

Related Words

evident:

clearly seen or understood; obvious.

apparent:

clearly visible or understood; obvious.

manifest:

clear or obvious to the eye or mind.

Slang Meanings of obvious

Meaning: so obvious it's laughable

Example Sentence: His attempts to hide the truth were so obvious it's laughable.

Meaning: as clear as day

Example Sentence: The truth was as clear as day for everyone.