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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective apparent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of apparent are clear, distinct, evident, manifest, obvious, patent, and plain. While all these words mean "readily perceived or apprehended," apparent is very close to evident except that it may imply more conscious exercise of inference.

for no apparent reason

When is it sensible to use clear instead of apparent?

The meanings of clear and apparent largely overlap; however, clear implies an absence of anything that confuses the mind or obscures the pattern.

a clear explanation

In what contexts can distinct take the place of apparent?

While in some cases nearly identical to apparent, distinct implies such sharpness of outline or definition that no unusual effort to see or hear or comprehend is required.

a distinct refusal

When might evident be a better fit than apparent?

While the synonyms evident and apparent are close in meaning, evident implies presence of visible signs that lead one to a definite conclusion.

an evident fondness for sweets

When can manifest be used instead of apparent?

The words manifest and apparent can be used in similar contexts, but manifest implies an external display so evident that little or no inference is required.

manifest hostility

Where would obvious be a reasonable alternative to apparent?

Although the words obvious and apparent have much in common, obvious implies such ease in discovering that it often suggests conspicuousness or little need for perspicacity in the observer.

the obvious solution

When would patent be a good substitute for apparent?

In some situations, the words patent and apparent are roughly equivalent. However, patent applies to a cause, effect, or significant feature that is clear and unmistakable once attention has been directed to it.

patent defects

When is plain a more appropriate choice than apparent?

The words plain and apparent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, plain suggests lack of intricacy, complexity, or elaboration.

her feelings about him are plain

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of apparent The most apparent sign of a mouse infestation in a home is droppings near food sources, such as kitchen cabinets, pantries, and under furniture. Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Jan. 2025 In recent years, the limitations of hashtag activism have become more apparent. John Blake, CNN, 19 Jan. 2025 However, San Francisco Giants pitcher Logan Webb's apparent reaction to the news is one that stood out. Chantz Martin, Fox News, 18 Jan. 2025 The incongruity of profit maximization was brought to public attention in the UK recently, as the scale of river pollution from water utility companies becomes ever more apparent. Aissa Dearing, JSTOR Daily, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for apparent 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for apparent
Adjective
  • But there are other, less visible effects that space weather has on the atmosphere.
    Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 21 Jan. 2025
  • Prices are visible on Disney World’s app several weeks out from the current date.
    Eve Chen, USA TODAY, 20 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Johnson has emerged as the team’s primary back on third downs and obvious passing downs, catching 18 passes for 284 yards and three touchdowns and carrying the ball 41 times for 213 yards and one score.
    Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 17 Jan. 2025
  • There is an obvious set of two scoring lines and two shutdown lines available.
    Murat Ates, The Athletic, 17 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • During the day, open curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible.
    Cathy Habas, SELF, 17 Jan. 2025
  • The disease can affect the colon and rectum and can weaken the body, leading to possible life-threatening complications.
    Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 17 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The difference in how Andrew carries himself now is noticeable, Caroline said.
    Silas Allen, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Jan. 2025
  • For a movie that looks so remarkably good – from the oppressive, classical set design to the astounding lighting work – Ash's (Rook this time around) uncanny comeback was a noticeable exception.
    Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 15 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • That was evident when the Panthers went with Cade Mays over Christensen at center.
    Joseph Person, The Athletic, 23 Jan. 2025
  • Though the disproportionate dangers of flying in Alaska were evident both then and now, the Douglas C-54D Skymaster carrying Joyce, Jones and 42 others was well equipped to handle what was supposed to be a routine transit flight.
    Francine Uenuma, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • That night of violence — with its brutality and seeming lack of a motive — has shaken the community.
    Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 13 Sep. 2024
  • Political pressure will come to the Kremlin not just from opponents of the war but also from those dismayed by the military’s startling incompetence and seeming lack of determination.
    Michael Kimmage, Foreign Affairs, 27 Sep. 2022
Adjective
  • The device meets visual assessment requirements for ISO, ASTM, AATCC, and BSI standards.
    Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 16 Jan. 2025
  • The visual, co-directed by OK Go’s Damian Kulash and filmmaker Chris Buongiorno, uses 64 mobile phones to create a mosaic of 64 different videos, which, when combined, seamlessly create one giant image.
    Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 16 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The low-key pair stepped out in casual duds to grab lunch, with the Twilight star sporting a messy topknot in an unmistakable platinum shade.
    Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 21 Jan. 2025
  • An older technique that is once again covering masks across the NHL this season is painting on top of chrome to give the mask an unmistakable shine.
    Jesse Granger, The Athletic, 21 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near apparent

Cite this Entry

“Apparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/apparent. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on apparent

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