transpicuous
Definition
- Adjective:
- Easily understood or clear: "transpicuous" describes something that is transparently clear, both literally and figuratively, especially in terms of meaning or expression.
- Literally transparent: In older usage, it can mean allowing light to pass through so that objects behind are clearly visible.
Usage Examples
- (The reasoning was extremely clear and easy to understand.)
- (The writing style was straightforward and lucid.)
- (The glass was completely transparent.)
Advanced Usage
"a transpicuous style": a manner of writing or speaking that is remarkably clear and free of obscurity.
- The poet's transpicuous style was praised for its directness and beauty. (The poet's language was clear and unadorned, yet elegant.)
"transpicuous reasoning": logical thinking that is easy to follow and understand.
- The judge's transpicuous reasoning left no doubt about the verdict. (The judge's logic was perfectly clear.)
Variants and Related Words
Transpicuously (adverb): in a clear, transparent manner.
- She explained the theory transpicuously. (She explained it very clearly.)
Transpicuousness (noun): the quality of being easily understood or transparent.
- The transpicuousness of the instructions prevented any confusion. (The clarity of the instructions avoided misunderstandings.)
Transparency (noun): the state of being transparent; also used figuratively for clarity.
- The transparency of the water was remarkable. (The water was very clear.)
Synonyms
- Clear: easy to perceive, understand, or interpret.
- Lucid: expressed clearly; easy to understand.
- Transparent: (figuratively) obvious or evident; easy to perceive.
- Pellucid: very clear in meaning; easily understood.
Related Idioms
Plain as day: very obvious or easy to see or understand.
- His intentions were plain as day. (They were completely clear, like something transpicuous.)
Crystal clear: completely clear and easy to understand.
- The instructions were crystal clear. (They were transpicuous.)