# conspicuous

/kənˈspɪkjuəs/ (US) · /kənspˈɪkjuːəs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/conspicuous
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. easy to see

adjective · CEFR B2

very easy to notice or see.

For teachers: obvious to the eye or mind; attracting attention by being striking or unusual.

- The red bird was very conspicuous against the white snow.
- The new skyscraper was conspicuous on the city skyline, towering over the historic brick buildings that surrounded it.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'among' or 'against' to show contrast.

### 2. attracting unwanted attention

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

noticing something because it stands out in a way that might be embarrassing or strange.

For teachers: attracting attention in a manner that is often perceived as ostentatious, inappropriate, or unattractive.

- He felt very conspicuous standing there in his bright suit while everyone else wore black.
- The celebrity tried to stay quiet, but her large security detail made her presence in the small café quite conspicuous.

Teaching tip: This sense often carries a slightly negative or uncomfortable tone, suggesting the person or thing stands out more than they should.

## Examples

- The red bird was conspicuous against the white snow.
- His absence from the meeting was conspicuous, as he is usually the first person to arrive.
- The new skyscraper is a conspicuous addition to the skyline, its glass facade reflecting the sun with a brilliance that dominates the surrounding historical architecture.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.