might be obvious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "might be obvious" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that something is likely clear or apparent to most people, but you want to acknowledge that it may not be universally understood. Example: "While the solution might be obvious to experienced programmers, beginners may need more guidance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Some of these findings might be obvious.

The New York Times - Books

"It might be obvious to us.

The New York Times

That can mean spelling out in laborious detail what might be obvious to a normal child.

Independent

Today such an attitude toward the Bible might be obvious; in Strauss's time, it was blasphemous.

The New Yorker

Not Davidson; this is a deep and personal meditation, and while some references, particularly to painters, might be obvious – Atkinson Grimshaw, Caspar David Friedrich, Whistler – most are not.

Independent

While it might be obvious that the future of poetry is diverse, many people fail to recognise that the present is too.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

It might not be obvious to some people".

The New York Times

Yet what makes a game addictive might not be obvious immediately.

The Economist

To be shocking, to be offensive: the meaning of these noble terms might not be obvious.

The Guardian - Books

At first glance, it might not be obvious why I'm so excited about meeting them.

The Guardian - Music

And the euro stirs other passions that might not be obvious.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "might be obvious" when you want to gently suggest something is apparent, but acknowledge it may not be for everyone. For instance, "While the solution "might be obvious" to experts, novices may struggle."

Common error

Avoid using "might be obvious" excessively, as it can come across as condescending or dismissive. Instead, vary your language by using alternatives like "may be apparent" or "could be clear" to maintain a more engaging and respectful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "might be obvious" functions as a modal hedge, softening a statement by acknowledging that it may not be universally clear or known. Ludwig AI shows its usage spans various contexts, acting as a polite way to introduce something potentially already known.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

35%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "might be obvious" is a versatile phrase used to introduce information that could be self-evident, while acknowledging that not everyone may be aware of it. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various sources, including news, science, and general writing. When using this phrase, be mindful of your audience and avoid overusing it to prevent sounding condescending. Alternatives such as "may be apparent" or "could be clear" can provide a more engaging tone, depending on the context. Therefore, use "might be obvious" thoughtfully to balance politeness and clarity in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be evident

Changes the modal verb and adjective for a slightly different nuance.

may be apparent

Replaces "obvious" with "apparent" for a more formal tone.

could be clear

Substitutes "obvious" with "clear", simplifying the language.

might be self-evident

Emphasizes that the information is clear without needing explanation.

may be plain

Uses "plain" instead of "obvious", suggesting simplicity and directness.

may well be apparent

Adds emphasis to the likelihood of being apparent.

could be easily seen

Focuses on the ease of perception rather than inherent obviousness.

may be readily understood

Highlights that the information is easily grasped.

might be no-brainer

An informal way to say something is very obvious.

could stand to reason

Suggests something is logical and expected.

FAQs

What does "might be obvious" mean?

The phrase "might be obvious" suggests that something is likely clear or apparent, although not necessarily to everyone. It's a way of acknowledging that some people may not understand something that seems straightforward.

How can I use "might be obvious" in a sentence?

You can use "might be obvious" to introduce an idea that you suspect your audience already knows, like in the sentence, "While the benefits of exercise "might be obvious", many people still struggle to maintain a consistent workout routine."

What are some alternatives to "might be obvious"?

Some alternatives to "might be obvious" include "may be apparent", "could be clear", or "may be plain". The best choice will depend on the specific context and the level of formality you want to convey.

When should I avoid using "might be obvious"?

Avoid using "might be obvious" when addressing beginners or individuals unfamiliar with the topic, as it could come across as condescending. In such cases, it's better to present the information directly without assuming prior knowledge.