a conspicuous oversight

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a conspicuous oversight" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a noticeable or obvious mistake or omission in a particular context. Example: "The report was filled with errors, and the missing data was a conspicuous oversight that could have serious implications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

When asking Ms. O'Brien for the money that morning, he didn't ask where it would come from, which seems a conspicuous oversight given the firm's dire cash position.

The New York Times

That's a conspicuous oversight or a snub to history, since both benefited directly from the social movements of the 1960s and 1970s.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

A conspicuous disparity persists.

The New Yorker

George is a conspicuous communicator.

The New Yorker

(Daniel McGowan is a conspicuous McCartney look-alike).

The New York Times

A conspicuous absence of cigarette butts.

The Guardian - Opinion

The study noted a conspicuous exception.

The New York Times

But there is a conspicuous difference.

The Guardian

There is a conspicuous lack of chardonnay.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Only taste is a conspicuous no-show.

The New York Times - Food

This, too, was a conspicuous failure.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a conspicuous oversight", ensure the context clearly establishes what was overlooked and why it's significant. This strengthens the impact and clarity of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a conspicuous oversight" for minor, insignificant errors. The term implies a substantial and easily noticeable mistake that has real consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a conspicuous oversight" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies a particular instance of negligence or omission. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, with examples showcasing its descriptive power.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a conspicuous oversight" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a noticeable and significant error or omission. While relatively rare, its usage is appropriate in neutral to formal contexts, particularly within news and media. The Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase's validity and provides helpful examples. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly establishes the overlooked aspect and its importance to maximize impact. Alternatives like "a glaring omission" or "an obvious error" may offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a glaring omission

Replaces "oversight" with "omission", emphasizing the act of leaving something out; "glaring" suggests obviousness.

an obvious error

Substitutes both words for simpler terms, focusing on the mistake being easily noticeable.

a noticeable blunder

Replaces "oversight" with "blunder", highlighting a significant and often embarrassing mistake.

a striking lapse

Uses "lapse" instead of "oversight", indicating a temporary failure in judgment or memory; "striking" conveys prominence.

a remarkable negligence

Replaces "oversight" with "negligence", implying a failure to take proper care or attention.

a patent neglect

Focuses on the lack of attention or care, with "patent" emphasizing the obviousness of the neglect.

a palpable mistake

Emphasizes the tangibility or obviousness of the mistake, making it easily perceived.

a manifest defect

Replaces "oversight" with "defect", indicating a flaw or imperfection that is readily apparent.

an evident failing

Focuses on the failure aspect, with "evident" stressing the clarity and visibility of the shortcoming.

a clear dereliction

Implies a conscious abandonment or neglect of duty or responsibility.

FAQs

How can I use "a conspicuous oversight" in a sentence?

You can use "a conspicuous oversight" to point out a very obvious mistake or something that was clearly missed. For example, "The missing financial records were "a conspicuous oversight" during the audit".

What's the difference between "a conspicuous oversight" and "a minor mistake"?

"A conspicuous oversight" refers to a significant and easily noticeable error, while "a minor mistake" implies a small and less important error. The former carries more weight and suggests a more serious lapse.

What can I say instead of "a conspicuous oversight"?

Alternatives include "a glaring omission", "an obvious error", or "a noticeable blunder", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a conspicuous oversight" in formal writing?

Yes, "a conspicuous oversight" is suitable for formal writing when referring to a clear and significant error. However, ensure the tone remains professional and avoid overly accusatory language.