What does obvious mean?
Obvious is an adjective describing something that is easy to see, understand, or recognize. It commonly refers to a conclusion, fact, problem, or choice whose nature is clear from the available circumstances. In another use, obvious means plainly displayed or conspicuous, as in an obvious example or an obvious sign of trouble. The word can also carry a slightly dismissive or impatient implication when a speaker suggests that something should be immediately clear to everyone. Because it is widely understood and highly versatile, obvious is useful when emphasizing direct perception or a lack of subtlety. It is related in origin to words such as obviate, meaning to remove an obstacle, although the modern adjective usually focuses on evidence or meaning being plain rather than on an obstacle itself.
Easy to see, understand, or recognize; clearly evident.
"It was obvious from the signs that the train would be delayed."
Can sound dismissive when used to suggest that something should be immediately apparent.
Plainly displayed, conspicuous, or lacking in subtlety.
"The new safety sign was visible from every part of the warehouse."
Common in expressions such as "obvious example," "obvious choice," and "too obvious."
An obvious idea is often obvious only after someone else has found it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does obvious come from?
The adjective entered English in the early 16th century from Latin obvius, meaning "coming in one's way" or "evident." Latin obvius was formed from ob-, meaning "against," and via, meaning "way." The word later developed its modern sense of being plainly recognizable or easy to understand.
Related word forms
How obvious is actually used
Often neutral when describing a clear conclusion or circumstance, but it can sound dismissive when used to imply that a question or problem is easy. In the sense of conspicuous, it is especially common in phrases such as "obvious example" and "obvious choice."
Easily confused with obvious
Both describe something that is easy to see or understand, but obvious often emphasizes how plainly a point is displayed, whereas evident more commonly emphasizes the available evidence.