What does obviously mean?
Obviously is an adverb meaning “clearly” or “in a way that cannot reasonably be mistaken.” It is used when a fact, feeling, result, or situation is plainly visible to everyone involved: “The marks were obviously different.” In conversation, it can also be an emphatic response meaning that the speaker believes a question or argument does not need further consideration: “Obviously, that was the wrong choice.” This usage may sound impatient, dismissive, or occasionally sarcastic, so it is best used with care in sensitive or formal situations. Although the word can describe something visually apparent, its meaning is broader and often concerns any conclusion that follows naturally from what is already known. Its straightforward force makes it useful for emphasizing certainty, though a more specific alternative such as clearly, evidently, or unmistakably may sound less blunt.
adverbIn a way that is plainly apparent or easy to see; clearly or unmistakably. It can also be used emphatically to indicate that something is so obvious that it does not need explanation.
- Clearly; in a plainly evident or unmistakable way.
- Used emphatically to indicate that a point is obvious or does not require further discussion.
"She was obviously tired, with dark circles under her eyes and no energy to continue the conversation."
"The road ahead was obviously blocked by fallen branches."
"Obviously, you could have told me before the meeting."
Sometimes the most useful word in a conversation is the one that says: “We all know what this means.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does obviously come from?
The word comes from the Latin adverb obvious, meaning “clearly” or “plainly,” which was formed from the adjective obvius, meaning “clear” or “easy to meet or pass.” English adopted the form in the late Middle English period, initially as an adverb meaning “clearly.” The modern form obviously developed through the addition of the usual English suffix -ly to obvious.
Related word forms
How obviously is actually used
In everyday use, it can sound mildly impatient or critical, especially when used to dismiss a question or point that the speaker considers obvious. It is often conversational rather than formal.
Easily confused with obviously
Obviously emphasizes that something is clearly apparent, whereas apparently can mean that something seems true or is alleged to be true without necessarily being certain.