blatant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "blatant" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is very obvious or conspicuous, often in a negative context. Example: "The politician's blatant disregard for the rules was evident during the debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is a blatant lie.

The New York Times

"The blatant violations of international humanitarian and human rights law have been pointed out very clearly by the UN's commissioner for human rights," Amos told the Guardian during a visit to Tokyo, where she was attending a conference on improving responses to humanitarian crises in the Asia-Pacific.

The Guardian

But their comments were only the most blatant overtures among a series of thinly-veiled pitches for the party's nomination to take on a Democrat for the job of commander-in-chief in November.

The Guardian

Related: Two explosions hit Kurdish political rally in Turkey But many in Batman, a religiously conservative region, are indignant about the president's blatant use of Islam to rally his base.

The Guardian

But Wensley says this is rare and only happens when owners show "a blatant disregard for the advice they're receiving".

The Guardian

Díaz argues that the authorities' failure to stop the abductions represents a blatant abdication of the Mexican state's responsibility to its citizens.

The Guardian

Yet, unlike the English (and Italians), I am imbued with an Australian contempt for divisions of class, for overt shows of elitism and blatant nepotism.

The Guardian - Opinion

Robben had earlier been guilty of a blatant dive, with Santi Cazorla in attendance, and Wenger lashed out at the Holland winger.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's too blatant... a player who is not interested in the ball and instead just goes for the man".

The Guardian - Sport

The invention of such scenarios by unelected European and IMF officials, whose job is to serve rather than unseat elected politicians, reveals an alarming disregard for Greece's democratic institutions and a blatant violation of EU rules which they like to lecture Syriza about.

The Guardian

"This is a blatant attempt to extend their jurisdiction into other states.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "blatant" to describe something that is not only obvious but also usually morally wrong or inappropriate. For example, "a blatant attempt to cheat".

Common error

Avoid using "blatant" when a more neutral term like "obvious" or "clear" would suffice. "Blatant" carries a negative connotation, so use it only when that connotation is intended.

Linguistic Context

Adjective. The primary grammatical function of "blatant" is to modify nouns, emphasizing the obvious and often offensive nature of the noun it describes. Ludwig's examples show it used to describe actions, lies, and disregard for rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "blatant" is an adjective used to describe something that is offensively obvious or conspicuous. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting not just obviousness but also impropriety or wrong-doing. The term is best used to express strong disapproval, and should be avoided in neutral contexts where a more objective term like "obvious" would be more appropriate. Remember that while "blatant" is common, using it accurately ensures that your writing is both clear and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obvious

A more general term for something easily perceived or understood.

flagrant

Implies a conspicuously offensive or outrageous act.

glaring

Suggests something extremely obvious and hard to ignore.

conspicuous

Refers to something easily noticed or attracting attention.

overt

Indicates something done or shown openly; not concealed.

undisguised

Means not concealed or hidden; open and apparent.

patent

Suggests something obvious and easily recognizable as such.

manifest

Indicates something clear or obvious to the eye or mind.

palpable

Suggests something so obvious it can almost be physically felt.

evident

Means clearly seen or understood; obvious.

FAQs

How is "blatant" typically used in a sentence?

The word "blatant" is usually used before a noun to describe something obvious and often offensive. For instance, "a blatant lie" or "blatant disregard".

What are some alternatives to the word "blatant"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "obvious", "flagrant", or "conspicuous" instead of "blatant".

Is it correct to use "blatant" in a positive context?

While technically possible, "blatant" is almost always used in a negative context to describe something offensively obvious. It's best to reserve it for such situations.

What is the difference between "blatant" and "obvious"?

"Obvious" simply means easily perceived or understood, while "blatant" implies an offensive or inappropriate obviousness. "Blatant" carries a stronger negative connotation.