it became obvious

USAGE SUMMARY

"it became obvious" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a realization or understanding that occurred over time, rather than immediately. Example: As I continued to study the map, it became obvious that I had been going in the wrong direction the entire time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Despite its apparent efficacy, it became obvious that the adverse effects following long-term treatment were substantial.

European Journal of Pediatrics

Soon, though, it became obvious that student labor had its limitations.

The New York Times - Magazine

By 1892 it became obvious that Spain was unwilling to reform its colonial government.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It became obvious where I really wanted to go".

The New York Times - Arts

To the couple, it became obvious the move was retaliatory.

The Guardian

Eventually, it became obvious that Paul's effort was doomed.

The Washington Post

It became obvious that he was talking about dole culture.

The Guardian - Music

"From her personality it became obvious how ambitious she was.

The Guardian - Sport

As I shopped, it became obvious that the prettier the garment, the less control it had.

The New York Times

"After a while, it became obvious that I wasn't the same guy I was in 1966".

The New Yorker

It became obvious that desegregating the city was one thing, but integrating it would be another.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it became obvious" to signal a realization that dawns on someone after a period of observation or consideration. This is best used to describe a shift in understanding based on accumulated evidence or experience.

Common error

Don't use "it became obvious" when describing an immediate or instant realization. This phrase is better suited for insights that develop over time. Use "it was immediately clear" for instant understandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it became obvious" functions as an intransitive construction indicating a change in state or understanding. It signifies that something transitioned from being unclear to being easily perceived or understood, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it became obvious" is a versatile phrase indicating a realization that develops over time. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts. When writing, remember that it's best suited for describing insights that emerge gradually. Consider alternatives like "it became clear" or "it was evident" depending on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "it became obvious" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it became apparent

Replaces "obvious" with "apparent", suggesting something easily perceived or understood, though the intensity of clarity might be slightly lower.

it became clear

Substituting "obvious" with "clear" indicating something easily understood or perceived, with less emphasis on the prior obscurity.

it was evident

Using "evident" instead of "obvious" implies that something is plain or obvious in the sense of being clearly seen or understood.

it was plain to see

This alternative emphasizes the ease with which something could be noticed or understood, adding a bit more colloquial flavor.

it dawned on someone

This phrase suggests a gradual realization, where understanding comes slowly over time to a person.

it struck someone

Implies a sudden realization or awareness, conveying a sense of impact.

the realization hit someone

Highlights the moment of realization, often suggesting a forceful or impactful understanding.

the truth emerged

Focuses on the revealing of a fact or situation that was previously hidden or unclear.

it came to light

Suggests that information was revealed or discovered, bringing something previously unknown into awareness.

it was revealed

Focuses on the act of something being uncovered or made known, shifting emphasis from perception to disclosure.

FAQs

What does "it became obvious" mean?

The phrase "it became obvious" signifies that something was not initially clear but, over time, through observation or experience, became easily understood or apparent.

Is "it became obvious" formal or informal?

The phrase "it became obvious" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's a versatile expression that can be used in various types of writing and speech.

What can I say instead of "it became obvious"?

You can use alternatives like "it became apparent", "it became clear", or "it was evident" depending on the context.

How do I use "it became obvious" in a sentence?

You can use "it became obvious" to describe a realization that occurs after a period of time or observation. For example, "After analyzing the data, it became obvious that a new strategy was needed."