Conspicuous Meaning
/kənˈspɪk.ju.əs/Definition, CEFR level B2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
adjObvious or easy to notice.
adjNoticeable or attracting attention, especially if unattractive.
Sentence Examples
He was conspicuous in his suit.
The scar on his forehead is conspicuous.
Hummer limousines are the ultimate symbol of conspicuous consumption.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms:
CEFR Practice Quiz
Her bright yellow dress made her stand out as very ____ at the party.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The spy tried to hide, but his bright orange jacket made him very ____ in the crowd.
Word Origin & History
From Latin conspicuus (“visible, striking”), from cōnspicere (“to notice”), from con- (“with, together”) + specere (“to look at”).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"“No, don't,” replied the superintendent; “in fact, I'd rather you made yourself conspicuous elsewhere. Go down to the landing stage and cross to New Brighton or Wallasey—doesn't matter which—and come back. No doubt you will be seen, and reported to have gone across.”"
— 1928, Lawrence R. Bourne, chapter 7, in Well Tackled!:
"[...] 1. Handsignalmen, where needed, ought to wear a conspicuous orange/yellow cape (like many road workmen) to draw attention to them."
— 1964 April, “Letters: Rethinking emergency procedures”, in Modern Railways, page 274:
"For his height he had a small face. The combination made him conspicuous."
— 1969, Saul Bellow, Mr Sammler's Planet, Penguin Books Ltd, page 6:
Explore More B2 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
Her bright yellow dress made her stand out as very ____ at the party.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The spy tried to hide, but his bright orange jacket made him very ____ in the crowd.