it is conspicuous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is conspicuous" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that something stands out in a noticeable way. For example: "The red car was conspicuous amongst the other vehicles in the parking lot."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

It is conspicuous by its difference -- a new 34-story residential tower in one of Manhattan's heavily commercial neighborhoods.

The New York Times

The name Jake La Motta is the most populous on Robinson's hit-list, yet it is conspicuous by its absence from Ray's knockout tally.

The Guardian - Sport

The batsman whacks Rampaul straight up into the air and the age -old Sunday footballer's cry of "Let's have a name on it" is conspicuous by its absence as no one looks to claim the catch and Sammy eventually dives in vain.

The Guardian - Sport

With its 8ft wingspan and massive nests, it is conspicuous and, unlike the notoriously wary golden eagle, an inquisitive animal.

The Guardian

The one at ground zero, however, stands out not only because it is conspicuous but also because its presence seems to affirm, on a small scale, that the redevelopment of the site is more about money than memory.

The New York Times

It is conspicuous and suspect that the new requirement does not follow that model.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

New Delhi did not intervene on behalf of Tibetan protesters even though their leader, the Dalai Lama, was described by the Indian prime minister as the "personification of non-violence" — and it was conspicuous in its silence over the protests in Burma.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's power, it's affluence, it's conspicuous consumption.

The New York Times

IN THE end, it was conspicuous for the chuckles.

The Economist

It's conspicuous tucked under one's arm; it's too snug of a fit in a lady's handbag.

The New Yorker

What's striking this year – it's probably been happening for ages, but it's conspicuous now – is how working-class backgrounds are being used as comics' USP.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is conspicuous" when you want to emphasize that something is easily noticed or stands out in a significant way. It adds a touch of formality to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it is conspicuous" in very informal settings. Simpler alternatives like "it's obvious" or "it's clear" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is conspicuous" functions as an evaluative statement, highlighting something that is easily noticeable or stands out. It draws attention to a particular feature or aspect, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

37%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is conspicuous" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to denote something easily noticeable. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's suitable for use in formal contexts such as scientific writing and news reports. Although versatile, consider using simpler alternatives like "it is noticeable" or "it is obvious" in more casual conversations. The phrase's strength lies in its ability to emphasize the noteworthiness of an observation. The usage analysis shows a preference for science and news media sources. Remembering these aspects will enhance your ability to integrate "it is conspicuous" effectively into your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is noticeable

This alternative is a more general term for something attracting attention.

it is apparent

This alternative suggests something is clear or obvious.

it is evident

This alternative implies a clear indication or proof.

it is clear

This alternative is simpler and more direct, indicating lack of ambiguity.

it is obvious

This alternative suggests something is very easy to see or understand.

it is striking

This alternative emphasizes the impressive or remarkable nature of something.

it is prominent

This alternative suggests something stands out due to its position or importance.

it is remarkable

This alternative highlights something that is worthy of attention due to its exceptional quality.

it is manifest

This alternative is more formal and suggests something is plainly revealed or displayed.

it is palpable

This alternative suggests something is so evident it can almost be physically felt.

FAQs

How can I use "it is conspicuous" in a sentence?

Use "it is conspicuous" to point out something that is easily noticeable or stands out. For example, "It is conspicuous that the new building dominates the skyline."

What phrases can I use instead of "it is conspicuous"?

You can use alternatives like "it is noticeable", "it is apparent", or "it is obvious" depending on the context.

Which is correct: "it is conspicuous" or "it was conspicuous"?

Both are correct, but "it is conspicuous" is present tense, while "it was conspicuous" is past tense. Use the tense that matches the time frame you're describing.

What is the difference between "it is conspicuous" and "it is obvious"?

"It is conspicuous" implies something is easily noticed, while "it is obvious" suggests something is very clear and easily understood. Conspicuous focuses on visibility, obvious on understanding.