Apparent vs Obvious
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Apparent | Obvious | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Easy to see or understand | Easy to see or understand |
| CEFR level | B2 | B1 |
| Part of speech | adjective | adjective |
| Usage notes | Use 'apparent' to describe something obvious or clear. It is best used in written form or formal conversations, but not commonly used in casual speech. | Use 'obvious' to indicate something that doesn't need explanation. It's neutral and fits in various contexts, but avoid it in overly formal writing. |
Frequently asked questions: Apparent vs Obvious
What's the difference between "Apparent" and "Obvious"?
"Apparent" means: Easy to see or understand "Obvious" means: Easy to see or understand
When should I use "Apparent" and "Obvious"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Apparent" and "Obvious" the same CEFR level?
"Apparent" is at B2, "Obvious" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.