conspicuous
What does "conspicuous" mean?
To be conspicuous is to be standing out so clearly that it is impossible not to notice. Imagine a bright red umbrella in a sea of black ones, or a person wearing a formal tuxedo at a casual beach party; the object or person is visually or socially impossible to ignore. This word is most often used in formal contexts to describe something that catches the eye due to its size, color, or difference from its surroundings. It can also imply that someone is drawing unwanted attention to themselves, as in "conspicuous consumption," where someone flaunts their wealth in a way that feels intentional or excessive.
"conspicuous" in conversation
Choosing an outfit
Are you really wearing that neon yellow jacket to the funeral?
Are you really wearing that neon yellow jacket to the funeral?
I know it's a bit much, but I don't have anything else clean.
I know it's a bit much, but I don't have anything else clean.
It’s going to be incredibly conspicuous. Everyone will be staring at you.
It’s going to be incredibly conspicuous. Everyone will be staring at you.
Used to describe how an outfit draws unwanted attention in a somber setting.
Finding a seat
Let's sit in the back row so we don't stand out.
Let's sit in the back row so we don't stand out.
Agreed. Arriving late makes us conspicuous enough as it is.
Agreed. Arriving late makes us conspicuous enough as it is.
Describes the feeling of being noticed for the wrong reasons.
"conspicuous" in a sentence
The tall man was conspicuous in the small crowd.
The tall man was conspicuous in the small crowd.
She made a conspicuous effort to avoid her ex-boyfriend at the party.
She made a conspicuous effort to avoid her ex-boyfriend at the party.
The dictator's conspicuous display of wealth stood in stark contrast to the poverty of his people.
The dictator's conspicuous display of wealth stood in stark contrast to the poverty of his people.
