# patently

/ˈpætəntɫi/ (US) · /pˈeɪtəntli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/patently
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

in a way that is very obvious or easy to see. You use this when something is so clear that you do not need to explain it further.

For teachers: in a manner that is clearly evident or obvious to the senses. Often used to describe a quality that is self-evident or a situation that is manifestly true.

## Examples

- The mistake was patently obvious to everyone in the room.
- The plant's leaves were patently wilted, showing that it had not been watered for several days.
- The evidence was patently clear to the jury, leaving no room for doubt regarding the defendant's intent or the sequence of events.

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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.