all too obvious

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "all too obvious" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when something is very easy to understand or notice. For example, "It was all too obvious to me why he was so upset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Fluvial and marine flooding is an all too obvious issue.

The Economist

It's all too obvious.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's just all too obvious.

The Guardian

The supporting evidence was all too obvious.

The Guardian - Books

The scapegoat was all too obvious.

The Guardian - Sport

The voids in Mexico's government are all too obvious now.

The New Yorker

The danger of further attacks is all too obvious.

The New Yorker

In 1939, the reason was all too obvious.

The Guardian

His delight when they weren't was all too obvious.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Meaning seems either elusive or all too obvious.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But for others, this technique is an all-too obvious sign of Brahms's conscious cleverness.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone you want to convey. "All too obvious" can sometimes imply a negative connotation, suggesting that the obviousness is unwelcome or problematic.

Common error

While "all too obvious" is a valid expression, avoid using it excessively in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or condescending. Vary your vocabulary to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "all too obvious" functions as an adverbial modifier, intensifying the adjective "obvious." Ludwig AI indicates the phrase emphasizes how easily something can be understood or noticed, often with an implication of frustration or negativity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "all too obvious" is a common phrase used to emphasize that something is very clear and easily understood, often with a connotation of frustration or disappointment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, particularly in news and media. When writing, remember that it isn't just about something being "obvious"; it's about the implication that the obviousness is, in some way, undesirable. While highly versatile, be mindful not to overuse the phrase. Alternatives such as "blindingly obvious" or "plain as day" can add variety to your writing, making it more engaging.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blindingly obvious

Highlights the overwhelming and undeniable nature of something that is obvious.

patently obvious

Stresses the self-evident and undeniable quality of something.

impossible to miss

Highlights that something is so obvious that it cannot be overlooked.

plain as day

Emphasizes clarity and ease of understanding, implying something is very straightforward.

clear as crystal

Implies the clarity of a situation or fact, making it easily understandable.

readily apparent

Suggests that something is easily noticeable or understandable without much effort.

evident

Directly states that something is easily seen or understood, often in a formal context.

manifest

Indicates that something is clear or obvious to the eye or mind.

out in the open

Suggests that something obvious has been revealed or is no longer hidden.

easy to see

Simple and direct way to express that something is obvious.

FAQs

How can I use "all too obvious" in a sentence?

You can use "all too obvious" to emphasize that something is very easy to understand or notice, often implying a negative or frustrating connotation. For example, "The reason for their failure was "plain as day"."

What are some alternatives to "all too obvious"?

Some alternatives include "blindingly obvious", "patently obvious", or "clear as crystal". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "all too obvious" formal or informal?

"All too obvious" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, be mindful of the implied criticism or frustration that it can convey.

What's the difference between "all too obvious" and "obvious"?

While both indicate something is easily understood, "all too obvious" adds emphasis. It suggests that the obviousness is not only clear but also perhaps unwelcome or disappointing. It's more than just "easy to see".