Meaning
so clear that it feels uncomfortable or embarrassing
Primary Function
Adverb‑adjective collocation used for emphasis, often with a sarcastic tone
Communicative Purpose
To signal that something is glaringly evident yet perhaps ignored by others; can convey irritation or disbelief
Pattern
painfully obvious
Core Structure
painfully obvious
Função primária
Adverb‑adjective collocation used for emphasis, often with a sarcastic tone
Propósito comunicativo
To signal that something is glaringly evident yet perhaps ignored by others; can convey irritation or disbelief
Situações de gatilho
When giving criticism, making ironic remarks, or pointing out an obvious mistake that someone else has missed
Contextos
Everyday conversation, professional settings (e.g., meetings), informal writing
Padrão
painfully obvious
Estrutura central
painfully obvious
Slots de substituição
glaringly obvious; embarrassingly obvious
Colocados típicos
- be
- become
- seem
- that
Substituições comuns
- blatantly obvious
- crystal clear
Erros comuns
Using the phrase without a preceding clause or noun – it must modify something specific.
Similar / contraste
blindingly obvious (more intense), patently obvious (clearer but less sarcastic)
Interferências
In some languages learners may over‑use to convey politeness rather than sarcasm; be aware of register differences.
Família do chunk
- glaringly evident
- blindingly clear
- blatant
Nuance
Carries a tone of mild irritation or embarrassment, implying others should have noticed what is evident.
Efeito pragmático
Creates a subtle critique by highlighting how oblivious someone else was while making light of their oversight.
Dica de memória
painful obviousness
Nota
This collocation is often used to express frustration or sarcasm when obvious things are overlooked.
Upgrade path
very clear → obvious → painfully obvious
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