When something is obvious, it means it's super easy to see or understand.
You don't need to think hard about it, because it's very clear.
For example, if it's raining, it's obvious you should take an umbrella.
It's like when you look at something and immediately know what it is.
When something is obvious, it means it's incredibly clear and needs no explanation at all. It's immediately apparent to anyone, without requiring deep thought or investigation. Think of it as information that practically jumps out at you. It's often used when a conclusion or fact is so self-evident that to state it feels almost redundant. The truth of the matter is right there, undeniable and unmistakable.
§ What Does "Obvious" Mean?
- Definition
- Something that is easily perceived or understood; quite apparent and clear to the eye or mind. It describes information or situations that do not require much thought or investigation to recognize.
The word "obvious" describes something that is so clear and apparent that it requires little to no effort to understand or notice. It's like a sign that's brightly lit and right in front of you – you can't miss it. When something is obvious, it's not hidden, subtle, or difficult to decipher. Instead, its meaning or presence is immediately evident to most people. Think of it as information that is self-explanatory or a situation whose outcome is predictable without much analysis.
While the prompt mentions "obvious" as a verb, it is predominantly used as an adjective. A more accurate phrasing would be to say that something is obvious, rather than to obvious something. The prompt's definition aligns perfectly with its use as an adjective. In common English, we use "obvious" to describe things like facts, solutions, mistakes, or even feelings that are readily apparent.
§ When Do People Use "Obvious"?
People use the word "obvious" in a wide variety of contexts to convey clarity and lack of ambiguity. Here are some common scenarios:
To state a clear fact or truth: When something is undeniably true and doesn't require further proof or explanation, you can describe it as obvious.
It's obvious that the sky is blue on a clear day.
To point out an evident solution or answer: Sometimes, the solution to a problem or the answer to a question is so straightforward that it seems to jump out at you.
The most obvious solution is to simply ask for help.
To highlight a noticeable mistake or error: If a mistake is glaring and easily spotted, it's often described as obvious.
There was an obvious typo in the report.
To describe a visible emotion or intention: When someone's feelings or motives are easily read, you can say they are obvious.
Her excitement was obvious as she opened the present.
To express an expected or predictable outcome: When the result of a situation is highly likely and easily foreseen, it can be called obvious.
It was obvious that the team would win with such a strong lead.
Using "obvious" can sometimes carry a subtle implication that others should also have perceived the clarity. While generally neutral, if used sarcastically or condescendingly, it can imply that someone is slow to understand something simple. However, in most contexts, it's used as a neutral descriptor to indicate straightforwardness. For learners, understanding when something is truly obvious versus merely appearing so to them is a key distinction. It helps in assessing situations and communicating clearly.
§ Definition of 'Obvious'
- Word Type
- Adjective
- CEFR Level
- B2
- Meaning
- Something that is easily perceived or understood; quite apparent and clear to the eye or mind. It describes information or situations that do not require much thought or investigation to recognize.
§ How to use 'Obvious' in a Sentence
'Obvious' is an adjective, meaning it describes a noun or pronoun. It's often used to describe facts, conclusions, truths, or physical signs that are easily discernible. You'll frequently find it modifying words like 'reason', 'solution', 'difference', 'fact', or 'sign'.
The solution to the problem seemed obvious to everyone in the room.
There was an obvious difference in their opinions.
§ Common Grammatical Structures with 'Obvious'
Here are some common ways 'obvious' is used grammatically:
- It is obvious that...: This is a very common construction to introduce an obvious fact or conclusion.
It is obvious that he's upset about the decision.
- (Noun) is obvious: When the subject itself is clearly apparent.
Her talent for music was obvious from a young age.
- Obvious + Noun: When 'obvious' directly modifies a noun.
There was an obvious mistake in the calculation.
- It's obvious to (someone/everyone) that...: This emphasizes to whom something is clear.
It's obvious to me that we need to change our approach.
§ Prepositions with 'Obvious'
While 'obvious' itself doesn't directly take prepositions in the same way a verb might, it often appears in phrases with prepositions:
- Obvious to: This is the most common prepositional usage, indicating to whom something is clear.
The answer was obvious to everyone involved.
- Obvious from: This can be used to indicate the source or evidence from which something is obvious.
It was obvious from his expression that he was disappointed.
§ Adverb Form: Obvious-ly
The adverb form, 'obviously', is used to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, meaning 'in an obvious way' or 'clearly'.
He was obviously nervous before the presentation.
§ Nuances and Common Mistakes
While 'obvious' generally means clear, there are a few nuances to consider:
- Subjectivity: What is obvious to one person might not be obvious to another. It's often used with the understanding that the clarity is widely shared.
- Avoiding Redundancy: Be careful not to overuse 'obvious' when something is already quite clear from the context.
Common mistake: Sometimes people confuse 'obvious' with 'apparent' or 'evident'. While they are synonyms, 'obvious' often implies a higher degree of clarity, almost to the point of being undeniable.
§ Similar words and when to use them
The word "obvious" describes something that is easily perceived or understood, quite apparent and clear to the eye or mind. It characterizes information or situations that do not require much thought or investigation to recognize. While it can be used across various contexts, it's particularly useful when you want to emphasize the self-evident nature of something.
- Synonyms and their nuances
- Understanding the subtle differences between "obvious" and its synonyms can help you choose the most precise word for your communication.
§ Apparent
"Apparent" is very similar to "obvious" and often interchangeable. However, "apparent" can sometimes carry a slight implication that something *seems* to be true, but might not be upon closer inspection. While "obvious" is generally a stronger statement of certainty, "apparent" can be used when there's a possibility of illusion or deception.
It was apparent that he was upset, though he tried to hide it.
§ Evident
"Evident" implies that something is clear or obvious because there is clear proof or signs. It often suggests a conclusion drawn from evidence rather than a direct, immediate perception. While something can be "obvious" without requiring proof, something "evident" almost always has supporting facts or observations.
From the fingerprints, it was evident who had been in the room.
- When to use "evident"
- Choose "evident" when you want to highlight that something is clear due to supporting evidence or observations, making it a more formal alternative to "obvious" in certain contexts.
§ Clear
"Clear" is a very broad term that can apply to many situations where something is easily understood, seen, or heard. It can refer to physical clarity (a clear window) or conceptual clarity (a clear explanation). While "obvious" specifically means easily perceived or understood, "clear" encompasses a wider range of sensory and intellectual perceptions. Something can be clear without necessarily being immediately "obvious" to everyone, especially if it's a complex idea explained well.
The instructions were clear and easy to follow.
§ Manifest
"Manifest" is a more formal synonym for "obvious" or "evident," often used in contexts where something is revealed or displayed clearly. It suggests that something is shown or made apparent through actions, words, or qualities. It has a slightly more active connotation, implying that something is being brought forth or made visible.
His talent was manifest in every performance.
- When to use "manifest"
- Opt for "manifest" when you want to convey that something is overtly displayed, made evident, or clearly revealed, particularly in formal writing or speech.
§ Plain
"Plain" indicates something that is simple, straightforward, and easily understood, without any complexity or embellishment. While it can overlap with "obvious," "plain" often emphasizes the lack of difficulty or intricacy, rather than just immediate perceptibility. A plain truth is often an obvious truth, but "plain" can also describe something that is unadorned or direct in its presentation.
The answer was plain to see once he explained it.
§ Undeniable
"Undeniable" means something cannot be disputed or denied because it is so clearly true or evident. While something "obvious" is easily perceived, something "undeniable" is so overwhelmingly clear that no one could reasonably argue against it. This term adds a layer of absolute certainty and irrefutability.
The evidence was undeniable.
- When to use "undeniable"
- Choose "undeniable" when you want to emphasize the absolute certainty and irrefutable nature of a fact or situation, leaving no room for doubt or argument.
§ When to use "obvious"
"Obvious" is best used when you want to convey that something is immediately and unmistakably clear to most people, requiring little to no intellectual effort to grasp. It implies a lack of subtlety or hidden meaning. It's a direct and strong way to say that something is self-evident.
- Use "obvious" when you want to express that a conclusion or fact is easily seen or understood without much thought.
- It is suitable for situations where the clarity of something is universally acknowledged or should be.
- Avoid using it if there's any ambiguity or if the clarity depends on specific knowledge that not everyone might possess, in which case a term like "apparent" or "evident" might be more appropriate.
It was obvious that she was not happy with the decision.
By understanding these distinctions, you can select the most precise and impactful word to convey your message effectively.
自我测试 42 个问题
The sky is blue. This is very...
Something that is obvious is easy to see or understand, like the color of the sky.
It is ___ that a cat has four legs.
It is easy to see and understand that a cat has four legs, so it is obvious.
If something is 'obvious', it means it is...
Obvious means something is very clear and easy to see or understand.
It is obvious that the sun is hot.
Yes, it is easy to understand and feel that the sun is hot, so it is obvious.
A hidden treasure is obvious.
No, if something is hidden, it is not easy to see, so it is not obvious.
If a door is open, it is obvious you can walk through it.
Yes, an open door clearly shows you can go through it, so it is obvious.
Write a short sentence using the word 'obvious' to describe something that is easy to see.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
It was obvious that the cat was hungry because it kept meowing.
Complete the sentence: 'It was obvious that he was happy because...' (write 3-5 words to finish the sentence).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
It was obvious that he was happy because he was smiling a lot.
Imagine you see a friend looking sad. Write one sentence explaining why it's 'obvious' they are sad.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
It was obvious that she was sad because she was crying.
What was obvious about the weather?
Read this passage:
The sun was shining brightly. The sky was blue with no clouds. Birds were singing in the trees. It was a beautiful day for a picnic.
What was obvious about the weather?
The passage describes bright sun and blue sky, making it obvious it was a good day.
The passage describes bright sun and blue sky, making it obvious it was a good day.
What was obvious about Sarah?
Read this passage:
Sarah didn't eat her lunch. She didn't play with her friends. She sat quietly by herself. She was not feeling well.
What was obvious about Sarah?
Her actions (not eating, not playing, sitting quietly) make it obvious she was not feeling well.
Her actions (not eating, not playing, sitting quietly) make it obvious she was not feeling well.
What was obvious about the answer to the question?
Read this passage:
The teacher asked a question. Everyone in the class knew the answer. It was very easy. The answer was simple.
What was obvious about the answer to the question?
The passage states that everyone knew the answer and it was very easy, meaning it was obvious.
The passage states that everyone knew the answer and it was very easy, meaning it was obvious.
Listen for how 'obvious' describes her feelings.
Pay attention to what made the answer clear.
Consider how noticeable his happiness was.
Read this aloud:
It's obvious you've worked hard on this project.
Focus: /ˈɒb.vi.əs/
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
The solution to the puzzle was quite obvious after I reread the instructions.
Focus: /səˈluː.ʃən/
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
Her excitement for the trip was obvious to everyone.
Focus: /ɪkˈsaɪt.mənt/
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
It was ___ to everyone that she was upset, even though she tried to hide it.
The word 'obvious' means easily perceived or understood. 'Clear' is the best synonym here, indicating that her upset state was easily seen by everyone.
The solution to the puzzle seemed ___ once he finally saw it.
'Evident' means plain or clear to the sight or understanding, making it the best fit for something that is obvious once discovered.
Her dedication to her studies was ___ in her excellent grades.
'Manifest' means clear or obvious to the eye or mind, indicating that her dedication was easily seen through her grades.
The change in his attitude was so ___ that everyone noticed.
If a change is 'obvious', it means it's easily noticeable. 'Striking' describes something very noticeable or impressive.
It's ___ that you haven't read the instructions carefully.
'Apparent' means clear or obvious; able to be seen or understood. This aligns with the meaning of 'obvious' in this context.
For experienced climbers, the path was ___, but for beginners, it was quite challenging.
If something is 'obvious' for experienced individuals, it implies it's easy to understand or do. 'Straightforward' means easy to understand or simple.
Describe a situation where the solution to a problem became obvious to you after a period of confusion or struggle. Explain what made it obvious.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I was trying to fix a leaky faucet for hours, watching tutorials and trying different tools. Suddenly, it became obvious that I had been using the wrong size wrench all along. Once I used the correct tool, the problem was solved in minutes. It was a simple solution that I had overlooked.
Write a short paragraph explaining why it's important for instructions or directions to be obvious. Provide an example where unclear instructions led to a problem.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
It is crucial for instructions to be obvious because it ensures that tasks are completed correctly and efficiently. Unclear instructions can lead to confusion and mistakes. For instance, I once tried to assemble a piece of furniture, but the diagram was so vague that it was not obvious which screws went where, leading to a lot of wasted time and frustration.
Imagine you are explaining a new concept to someone. How would you ensure your explanation is obvious and easy to grasp? Give specific strategies.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
To make a new concept obvious, I would start by breaking it down into smaller, manageable parts. I'd use simple language and avoid jargon. Providing relatable examples and analogies would help illustrate the idea, and visual aids like diagrams or charts could further enhance understanding. Regularly checking for comprehension by asking questions would also be a key strategy.
What makes the signs of climate change 'obvious' according to the passage?
Read this passage:
The signs of climate change are becoming increasingly obvious to everyone. Rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and changes in global temperatures are no longer abstract concepts but realities that communities around the world are facing. Scientists have presented overwhelming evidence, making the urgency of the situation quite clear.
What makes the signs of climate change 'obvious' according to the passage?
The passage states that rising sea levels and extreme weather events are 'no longer abstract concepts but realities' and that 'scientists have presented overwhelming evidence, making the urgency of the situation quite clear,' indicating that the signs are easily perceived.
The passage states that rising sea levels and extreme weather events are 'no longer abstract concepts but realities' and that 'scientists have presented overwhelming evidence, making the urgency of the situation quite clear,' indicating that the signs are easily perceived.
What eventually made the motive 'obvious' to the detective?
Read this passage:
During the detective's investigation, the motive behind the crime was not immediately obvious. There were several suspects, each with a plausible reason. However, after reviewing the security footage multiple times, a small detail became apparent: the suspect had left a unique personal item at the scene. This detail made their involvement undeniable and the motive, once obscure, quite obvious.
What eventually made the motive 'obvious' to the detective?
The passage states, 'after reviewing the security footage multiple times, a small detail became apparent: the suspect had left a unique personal item at the scene. This detail made their involvement undeniable and the motive, once obscure, quite obvious.'
The passage states, 'after reviewing the security footage multiple times, a small detail became apparent: the suspect had left a unique personal item at the scene. This detail made their involvement undeniable and the motive, once obscure, quite obvious.'
Why was the artist's intention initially not obvious?
Read this passage:
The artist's intention in this abstract painting was not immediately obvious to most viewers. Some saw it as a representation of chaos, while others interpreted it as a serene landscape. The artist later explained that the overlapping shapes and vibrant colors were an obvious depiction of the constant struggle between order and disorder in the modern world. With this explanation, the meaning became much clearer.
Why was the artist's intention initially not obvious?
The passage mentions, 'Some saw it as a representation of chaos, while others interpreted it as a serene landscape,' indicating that the lack of an obvious meaning was due to varied interpretations before the artist's clarification.
The passage mentions, 'Some saw it as a representation of chaos, while others interpreted it as a serene landscape,' indicating that the lack of an obvious meaning was due to varied interpretations before the artist's clarification.
The subtle nuances of her argument were far from being _____; they required careful consideration to grasp fully.
The sentence implies that the nuances were not easily understood, so 'obvious' is the best fit for the blank.
Despite the complex terminology, the underlying message of the presentation was quite _____ to anyone familiar with the industry.
'Patent' means easily recognizable or obvious, fitting the context of the sentence.
Her distress was _____ to everyone in the room; her trembling hands and tear-filled eyes spoke volumes.
'Manifest' means clear or obvious to the eye or mind, which aligns with the description of her distress.
If something is 'obvious,' it requires extensive analysis to understand.
The definition of 'obvious' states that it does not require much thought or investigation to recognize, so this statement is false.
A situation described as 'obvious' is generally straightforward and easy to interpret.
The definition highlights that 'obvious' describes information or situations that are easily perceived or understood, making this statement true.
The 'obvious' solution to a problem is often the most innovative and unexpected.
An 'obvious' solution is typically one that is readily apparent, not necessarily innovative or unexpected. This statement is false.
The subtle nuances of her argument were far from _______; they required careful consideration to grasp fully.
The word 'obvious' implies something easily understood. The sentence suggests the opposite, thus 'far from obvious' fits perfectly.
Despite his attempts to conceal his emotions, the deep sorrow in his eyes was _______ to anyone who truly knew him.
Here, 'obvious' signifies that the sorrow was easily perceived, even when he tried to hide it.
The solution to the complex mathematical problem seemed _______ after the professor explained the underlying principles.
Once explained, the solution became clear and easy to understand, making 'obvious' the most suitable word.
The lack of preparation for such a critical presentation was _______ to everyone in the boardroom, leading to a palpable sense of unease.
The unpreparedness was clearly apparent to everyone present, hence 'obvious' is the correct choice.
It was _______ that she was uncomfortable with the topic, as her body language conveyed her reluctance quite clearly.
Her discomfort was easily perceived through her body language, making it 'obvious'.
The artist's intention, once the symbolism was explained, became strikingly _______ to even the most casual observer.
After the explanation, the artist's intention was easily understood, so 'obvious' is the best fit.
/ 42 correct
Perfect score!
例句
It was obvious from her smile that she had passed the exam.
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mean
A1To have a specific sense or significance, especially when explaining a word or sign. It can also describe a person's intention or the importance of something to someone.
participle
B2分词是由动词构成的词，用作形容词或名词。例如“正在跑”。
prose
B2散文是指没有诗歌韵律结构的普通书面或口头语言。
aphoristic
B2指表达普遍真理或原则的简短、精炼的陈述。
forebrevary
C1特征是具有初步的或预期的简洁性，用作更大作品的简短序言。
word
A1单词是具有特定含义的单一语言单位，可以口头或书面形式表达。它是用于在交流中创建短语和句子的基本构建块。
feature
C1A distinctive attribute or aspect of something that makes it recognizable or important. In academic and technical contexts, it refers to a specific characteristic used for analysis, classification, or identification.
code
B2A system of words, letters, figures, or other symbols used to represent others, especially for the purposes of secrecy or computer programming. It also refers to a set of rules or principles that a group of people agree to follow.
metaphor
B2隐喻是指通过说某物是另一件不同的事物来描述它。这有助于人们通过在脑海中描绘一个简单的图像来理解一种感觉或想法。
rhetoric
A1修辞指说服或影响他人的语言运用方式。
