# obviously

/ˈɑbviəsɫi/ (US) · /ˈɒbvɪəsli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/obviously
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. clearly or plainly

adverb · CEFR B1

in a way that is easy to see or understand.

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

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

### 2. as everyone knows

adverb · CEFR B1 · Informal

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

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

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

Teaching tip: In professional settings, overusing this sense can sound condescending, as it implies the listener would be foolish not to already know the information.

## Examples

- She is obviously very happy with her new job.
- The store is obviously closed because all the lights are off and the door is locked.
- While the solution seemed complex at first, it was obviously the only logical choice once the team reviewed the financial data.

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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.