What does "obviously" mean?

1. (clearly or plainly) in a way that is easy to see or understand. 2. (as everyone knows) used to introduce a fact that you think is already known or expected.

How do you use "obviously"?

Typically placed before an adjective or at the start of a clause to modify the entire statement. Often used as a sentence-initial adverb followed by a comma.

obviously

adv.

US //ˈɑbviəsɫi// UK //ˈɒbvɪəsli// ob·vi·ous·ly

1 clearly or plainly (adv.)
B1 Intermediate

in a way that is easy to see or understand.

in a manner that is easily perceived, evident, or manifest to the observer.

Example

She was obviously upset because her eyes were red from crying.

Example

The data was obviously flawed, as the results contradicted every established principle of thermodynamics.

Usage

Typically placed before an adjective or at the start of a clause to modify the entire statement.
- unclearly
- obscurely
2 as everyone knows (adv.)
B1 Intermediate Informal

used to introduce a fact that you think is already known or expected.

used as a pragmatic marker to introduce information assumed to be common ground between the speaker and listener.

Example

Obviously, we need to finish the project before the deadline.

Example

Obviously, the success of the merger depends on how well the two corporate cultures can be integrated over the next fiscal year.

Usage

Often used as a sentence-initial adverb followed by a comma.

Teacher's tip

In professional settings, overusing this sense can sound condescending, as it implies the listener would be foolish not to already know the information.
- naturally
- of course
- surprisingly

Origin

From obvious + -ly.