Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In a way that is clearly visible or noticeable; strikingly to the eye or mind. It describes something done in a manner that attracts attention because it is obvious, prominent, or stands out from its surroundings.
   • In a way that is so obvious as to be significant or noteworthy, often implying a surprising or negative absence or presence. Used to highlight something that is remarkably present or absent in a given context.

Usage and Examples

• To describe something physically prominent or eye-catching:

  • The monument was conspicuously placed at the center of the square.
  • She was conspicuously dressed in bright red at the party.

• To highlight a notable, often surprising, presence or absence:

  • The report was conspicuously silent on the issue of funding. (It notably lacked mention of funding.)
  • His name was conspicuously absent from the guest list.
  • The manager praised the team but conspicuously failed to mention my contribution.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "Conspicuously" often carries a connotation of intentionality or significance. The noticeable quality is not accidental but is due to importance, oddity, or a deliberate act.
• It can be used in formal and academic writing to point out contradictions, omissions, or emphatic presences.
  • The policy promises equality, yet it conspicuously benefits only a select few.

Variants and Related Words

• Conspicuous (adjective): Easily seen or noticed; attracting attention.
  • He made a conspicuous effort to arrive on time.
• Conspicuousness (noun): The quality of being conspicuous.
  • The conspicuousness of the error made it impossible to ignore.

Synonyms

• Noticeably: In a way that is easily seen or noticed.
• Prominently: In a leading, important, or conspicuous position.
• Strikingly: In a way that attracts attention by being unusual or extreme.
• Obviously: In a way that is easily perceived or understood; clearly.
• Remarkably: In a noteworthy or extraordinary manner.

Antonyms

• Inconspicuously: In a way that is not easily seen or noticed; unobtrusively.
• Unobtrusively: In a way that is not conspicuous or attracting attention.

Related Phrases and Idiomatic Use

• Conspicuous by one's absence: Used to say that someone or something is very noticeable because they are not present.
  • The CEO was conspicuous by his absence at the annual meeting.
• Conspicuous consumption: The act of buying and using expensive products to publicly display wealth.
  • The mansion and sports cars were acts of conspicuous consumption.

Adverb

1. in a prominent way
   • the new car was prominently displayed in the driveway
2. in a manner tending to attract attention
   • there have been plenty of general declarations about willingness to meet and talk, but conspicuously no mention of time and place