1
Visually prominent feature
Standing out clearly because of colour, size, placement, or contrast.
Example
The bright mineral layer was conspicuous against the surrounding dark rock.
conspicuous
/kənˈspɪkjuəs/ · kuhn-SPIK-yoo-uhsadjective
Easily noticed or attracting attention.
Use conspicuous for a feature, presence, absence, or difference that stands out clearly from its surroundings.
What conspicuous Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Noticeable presence
Attracting attention because someone or something is unusually visible or prominent.
Example
The tower remains a conspicuous feature of the city's skyline.
3
Noticeable absence
Drawing attention because an expected person, item, or response is missing.
Example
Her absence from the final meeting was conspicuous.
Use conspicuous Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Her absence from the final meeting was conspicuous.
A band of white stone was conspicuous against the dark cliff.
The report was conspicuously silent about the programme's cost.
Precision Matters
Conspicuous overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
conspicuous
vs.Suggests something stands out strongly and attracts attention.
noticeable
Simply means capable of being noticed.
conspicuous
vs.Emphasises visibility within a particular setting.
prominent
May also mean important, influential, or projecting outward.
conspicuous
vs.Concerns attracting notice through contrast or prominence.
obvious
Concerns being easy to understand or recognise.
conspicuous
vs.Does not require a deliberate attempt to impress.
ostentatious
Describes showy display intended to attract admiration.
Test conspicuous in Context
Strong contrast and long-distance visibility make the band stand out immediately.
1
Against the cliff's uniformly dark rock, a bright white mineral layer formed a ___ band visible from several kilometres away.