conspicuous absences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "conspicuous absences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe noticeable or significant gaps or omissions in a particular context, such as a list, event, or discussion. Example: "The report highlighted the conspicuous absences of key stakeholders during the meeting, raising concerns about the decision-making process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld "was notable more for his frequent, conspicuous absences….

The New Yorker

But in a disquieting sign that politics still weighs heavily in the Kremlin's calculations, there were conspicuous absences.

The New York Times

His conspicuous absences and erratic decision making during the Chechen crisis led to speculation about the degree to which Yeltsin was in control of the country.

Encyclopedia Britannica

" The Article ultimately proposes a systems approach" trial by cyborg" -that safeguards against automation pathologies while interrogating conspicuous absences in mechanization through "equitable surveillance" and other means.

University of California, Berkeley

The most conspicuous absences in LUCA are several essential components of the DNA replication machinery, including the replicative polymerase, helicase and initiation ATPase, whereas some other proteins involved in DNA replication, such as the sliding clamp or RNAse H, are present.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

A conspicuous absence of cigarette butts.

The Guardian - Opinion

There's also a conspicuous absence of stereotypes.

The Washington Post

There's now a conspicuous absence of subtlety.

The New York Times

But the biggest and most conspicuous absence is homes.

The New Yorker

There was a conspicuous absence of anger & passion.

The New Yorker

In his cabinet, there is a conspicuous absence of the political groups that helped him win.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Leverage "conspicuous absences" to subtly critique or highlight deficiencies within a system, plan, or presentation. The term's formal tone adds a layer of sophistication and precision to your evaluations.

Common error

Avoid using "conspicuous absences" when referring to something that is simply not there without any expectation of its presence. The phrase implies a notable and often problematic lack, not just a simple absence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "conspicuous absences" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness in standard English. It describes the state of something noticeably missing or lacking. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, highlighting significant gaps or omissions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

16%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "conspicuous absences" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote noticeable and significant omissions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across varied contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, it serves to highlight gaps and raise concerns about completeness. When using the phrase, ensure the missing elements are indeed expected or logically required. Alternatives such as "notable omissions" or "striking gaps" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notable omissions

Focuses on the act of omitting rather than the visibility of the absence.

striking gaps

Emphasizes the unexpected and attention-grabbing nature of the missing elements.

marked voids

Highlights the emptiness and lack created by the absence.

obvious exclusions

Stresses that something or someone has been deliberately left out.

glaring omissions

Similar to striking gaps, but with a stronger sense of something being carelessly overlooked.

noticeable lacks

A more general term that simply indicates that something is missing and easily observed.

evident shortcomings

Highlights the deficiency or imperfection caused by the absence.

palpable absences

Implies that the absences are so significant they can almost be felt.

remarkable non-appearances

Draws attention to the unexpected failure of something or someone to be present.

prominent exclusions

Highlights that something has been excluded that should have been included.

FAQs

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

You can use "conspicuous absences" to highlight significant omissions or gaps. For example: "The report highlighted the "conspicuous absences" of key stakeholders during the meeting, raising concerns about the decision-making process."

What are some alternatives to "conspicuous absences"?

Alternatives include "notable omissions", "striking gaps", or "glaring omissions", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

What does "conspicuous absences" imply?

The phrase implies that the missing elements are not only absent but also noticeably and perhaps problematically so. It suggests that their presence was expected or needed.

Is it better to use "conspicuous absences" or "notable omissions"?

The choice depends on the context. "Conspicuous absences" emphasizes the visibility and importance of what's missing, while ""notable omissions"" simply highlights that something has been left out.