the answer is obvious

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'the answer is obvious' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are sure that the answer being discussed is clear and unambiguous. For example: "Why did Bob leave the job? The answer is obvious: he was offered a much higher salary at a different company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

The answer is obvious.

Forbes

Sometimes the answer is obvious.

The New York Times

The answer is obvious: China.

The New York Times

We think the answer is obvious.

The New York Times

To him, the answer is obvious.

The New York Times - Science

The answer is obvious but also treacherous.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

The answer was obvious.

The New York Times

There, the answer was obvious.

The New York Times - Science

"But the answer was obvious.

The New York Times

To him, the answer was obvious.

The New Yorker

For some, the answer was obvious.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, briefly state the obvious answer to reinforce the point and prevent any ambiguity or confusion.

Common error

While "the answer is obvious" can be effective, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and condescending. Instead, vary your language with alternatives like "it's clear", "it's evident", or "it's straightforward".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the answer is obvious" functions as an assertion, indicating that a solution or explanation is readily apparent and easily understood. As seen in the Ludwig examples, this phrase is often used to introduce a statement considered to be self-evident.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the answer is obvious" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to assert that a solution or explanation is easily understood. According to Ludwig AI, it is commonly found in news and academic contexts, serving to emphasize clarity and simplicity. While effective, overuse can sound condescending, so varying your language is recommended. Consider alternatives like "it's clear" or "it's evident" to maintain a balanced tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the solution is clear

Emphasizes the clarity of the solution rather than the obviousness of the answer.

it's patently clear

Highlights the undeniable and evident nature of the answer.

the explanation is straightforward

Focuses on the simplicity and directness of the explanation.

it's plain to see

Indicates that the answer is easily visible or understandable.

the reason is apparent

Stresses that the cause or justification is easily noticeable.

it's self-evident

Suggests that the answer is inherently obvious and requires no further explanation.

the conclusion is inescapable

Emphasizes the unavoidable nature of the conclusion.

it's a no-brainer

Informal way of saying something is very easy to understand or decide.

the truth is evident

Highlights the clarity and visibility of the truth.

it's staring you in the face

Suggests the answer is directly in front of someone, very easy to find or see.

FAQs

What does "the answer is obvious" mean?

It means the solution or explanation to a question or problem is easily understood or readily apparent.

When is it appropriate to use "the answer is obvious" in writing?

Use it when you genuinely believe the solution is clear and easily understood by your audience. However, be cautious to avoid sounding condescending.

What can I say instead of "the answer is obvious"?

You can use alternatives like "the solution is clear", "it's patently clear", or "the explanation is straightforward" depending on the context.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "the answer is obvious"?

Yes, it's inappropriate if the answer is not actually obvious to everyone, or if you use it in a sarcastic or condescending manner.