be conspicuous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be conspicuous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that something should stand out or be easily noticed. Example: "In order to attract more customers, the signage should be designed to be conspicuous."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was designed to be conspicuous.

The New York Times - Arts

Lap in's organization is so big as to be conspicuous.

The New York Times

It was a given that we would be conspicuous.

The New York Times

Some bankers, however, will be conspicuous by their absence.

The New York Times

I was just praying and trying not to be conspicuous".

The New York Times

Those performing poorly, or not at all, would surely be conspicuous.

The Guardian

It doesn't appear on balance sheets or on quarterly reports, but its impact can be conspicuous.

Harvard Business Review

Even some of the very affluent said they were reluctant to be conspicuous in their spending.

The New York Times

But many of those things will be conspicuous, and telling, by their absence.

Independent

She has only her travelling bag, slung over her shoulder, so she won't be conspicuous.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Nevertheless, in the age of Twitter, silence on an issue can be conspicuous and consequential.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be conspicuous" when you want to emphasize that something should be easily seen or noticed. Consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended level of formality.

Common error

Avoid using "be conspicuous" in very casual conversations where simpler alternatives like "stand out" or "be noticeable" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be conspicuous" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used with an infinitive marker to express a state or action. It emphasizes the quality of being easily noticeable or attracting attention. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be conspicuous" effectively describes something that is easily noticeable or attracts attention. Ludwig AI analysis confirms it as grammatically correct and suitable for formal to neutral contexts, often appearing in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. Alternatives like "stand out" or "be noticeable" offer simpler alternatives for informal settings. While relatively uncommon, its precise meaning makes it valuable in specific scenarios requiring an emphasis on visibility or prominence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stand out

Emphasizes prominence and distinction from the surroundings.

be noticeable

Focuses on the quality of being easily observed or detected.

attract attention

Highlights the act of drawing focus or interest.

be prominent

Indicates a position of importance or visibility.

be striking

Suggests something impressive and attention-grabbing.

be remarkable

Emphasizes the unusual or noteworthy nature of something.

be apparent

Highlights the clarity and ease of perception.

be obvious

Stresses the ease with which something can be understood or noticed.

catch the eye

Implies that something is visually appealing and attracts attention.

be easily seen

Focuses on the uncomplicated act of noticing something.

FAQs

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

You can use "be conspicuous" to describe something that is easily noticeable. For example, "The new building was designed to "be conspicuous" from a distance".

What are some alternatives to "be conspicuous"?

Alternatives include "stand out", "be noticeable", or "attract attention". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "be conspicuous" or "be obvious"?

"Be conspicuous" suggests something is easily seen or attracts attention, while "be obvious" implies something is easily understood. Use "be conspicuous" when focusing on visual prominence and "be obvious" when emphasizing clarity.

When is it appropriate to use "be conspicuous"?

It is appropriate in formal writing, news reports, or when you want to emphasize that something is designed or likely to draw attention. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives might be preferable.