Conspicuous Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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conspicuous
[kənˈspɪkjʊəs ]
Definition
easily noticeable
Standing out so as to be clearly visible; attracting notice or attention; striking
Synonyms
noticeable, obvious, prominent, visible.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| conspicuous |
Used when something clearly stands out and is very easy to see or notice. Often implies that it is attracting attention in a deliberate way.
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| obvious |
Used when something is very clear and easy to understand or see. It implies that there is no doubt about it.
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| visible |
Used to describe something that can be seen. It is a general term and doesn't imply any specific intensity.
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| prominent |
Used when something is important, well-known, or easily seen. Often used to talk about people, features, or attributes that stand out in a significant way.
|
| noticeable |
Used for something that is easy to detect or observe. Less intense than 'conspicuous'.
|
Examples of usage
- The red car was conspicuous among the line of white cars.
- His conspicuous absence from the meeting was noted by everyone in the room.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often notice conspicuous items first due to the way our brains prioritize visual information.
- Bright colors and unusual shapes attract our attention more than bland ones, making them more memorable.
- Awareness of conspicuous items can affect decision-making and preference due to their prominence in our visual field.
Literature
- In literature, conspicuous descriptions are often used to highlight character traits or important themes.
- Famous characters become more memorable when they possess conspicuous features, making them stand out in readers' minds.
- Many authors use conspicuous elements to symbolize broader concepts, such as social status or emotional states.
Fashion and Style
- Conspicuous fashion choices are often associated with social status, where people dress to stand out from the crowd.
- The term 'conspicuous consumption' refers to purchasing expensive items to display wealth and social status.
- Bright, bold styles in fashion deliberately aim to create a conspicuous appearance, making the wearer the center of attention.
Natural World
- Certain animals, like peacocks, have conspicuous traits that help attract mates or deter predators.
- Plants with vibrant colors or unusual shapes are more conspicuous to pollinators, ensuring their reproduction.
- In environmental science, conspicuous species help indicate healthy ecosystems due to their visibility and role in biodiversity.
Origin of 'conspicuous'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'conspicuus,' meaning 'visible' or 'obvious.'
- It combines 'con-' (meaning 'with') and 'spectare' (meaning 'to look'), emphasizing something you clearly look at.
- It was first introduced into the English language in the early 17th century.
The word 'conspicuous' originated from the Latin word 'conspicuus', which means 'visible' or 'remarkable'. It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe something that is easily noticeable or stands out. The term has evolved over time to represent something that attracts attention or is striking in appearance.