I can obviously

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I can obviously" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a point that is clear or evident to the speaker and is often used to emphasize the obviousness of a statement. Example: "I can obviously see that the project needs more resources to be completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

I can obviously see that I hurt a lot of people.

The New York Times - Sports

The scenes remind you of the imagined utopias in which the internet was first conceived, as a peer-to-peer community exchange, a way of finding like-minded people ("if you are a gay adolescent in Morecambe," Kidron suggests, "I can obviously see that it might be quite a wonderful thing…").

The Guardian - Film

"If I have a good education, I can obviously get a good job".

BBC

I can obviously draw upon my personal contacts and use networks such as DAPHNET and AWiSE.

Science Magazine

I can obviously say that the last three games have taken a lot out of us and we've had a tough opening to our season.

BBC

As he does not sit on the Church's assets committee, he had no "legal right to intervene", he said, adding: "I can obviously apply pressure, encouragement, and I've tried to do that and I'm absolutely delighted that we are now out of Wonga and have taken no profit from it".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

But it can obviously be broadened substantially.

Plosone

"I think we can obviously benefit from having her spread the floor in transition and then open her 3-point shooting".

The New York Times - Sports

Many more than I can imagine, obviously.

The Guardian

I've played so well the past few years, they know I can play, obviously.

The New York Times - Sports

He added: "If I was to step out on court, I'd be walking a tightrope where I can play obviously not at 100%, but with a significant risk of losing up to six to eight weeks if things go badly".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I can obviously" to emphasize a point that is self-evident or easily understood, but avoid overuse to prevent sounding condescending or patronizing.

Common error

Avoid using "I can obviously" when the statement is not genuinely obvious to the audience or when it might come across as belittling their understanding. In situations where sensitivity is crucial, opt for more tactful phrasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I can obviously" functions as a modal adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb, expressing capability with a degree of certainty and emphasis. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I can obviously" is a modal adverbial phrase used to emphasize one's ability or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, although its frequency is considered uncommon. Primarily found in news and media contexts, it asserts capability with an element of self-evidence. However, writers should be cautious of overuse, as it may occasionally sound condescending. When alternatives are needed, consider phrases like "I definitely can" or "it is clear I can" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I definitely can

Uses "definitely" for a strong assertion.

I certainly can

Uses "certainly" for a firm and confident tone.

I clearly can

Repositioning "clearly" adjusts the emphasis slightly.

I undoubtedly can

Uses "undoubtedly" to express a lack of doubt.

It's clear I can

Emphasizes clarity and removes the adverb "obviously".

I unquestionably can

Replaces "obviously" with "unquestionably", adding more force.

It's evident I can

Replaces "obviously" with "evident" maintaining a formal tone.

I can surely

Shifts focus to the reliability of the ability.

I can plainly

Emphasizes the straightforwardness of the ability.

I can easily

Replaces "obviously" with "easily", focusing on the lack of difficulty.

FAQs

What does "I can obviously" mean?

The phrase "I can obviously" means that the speaker is capable of doing something, and it should be apparent to others that they are capable. It emphasizes the certainty and clarity of the speaker's ability or understanding.

How can I use "I can obviously" in a sentence?

You can use "I can obviously" to state something you are capable of or something that is clear to you. For example, "I can obviously see that I hurt a lot of people" or "I can obviously get a good job if I have a good education".

What are some alternatives to "I can obviously"?

Alternatives to "I can obviously" include "I definitely can", "I certainly can", or "it is clear I can". These phrases convey similar meanings with slight differences in emphasis.

When is it inappropriate to use "I can obviously"?

It is inappropriate to use "I can obviously" when the information is not genuinely obvious to the listener or reader, or when it might come across as condescending. Use more tactful language in sensitive situations.