Conspicuous by your absence

usgb
phrase

Noticed or obvious because of not being present or not participating.

Although he always took part in the team meetings, today he was conspicuous by his absence.
Visual representation of "conspicuous by your absence" - Noticed or obvious because of not being present or not participating.

Often appears as...

  • conspicuous by his absence
  • conspicuous by her absence

Usage tips

Formal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "conspicuous by your absence"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Expectation at Events

The phrase is often used when someone's presence is expected at an event but they do not show up.

Illustration for Expectation at Events
At the family reunion, Uncle John was conspicuous by his absence.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Group Dynamics

Use it to highlight how a person's absence affects a group situation or dynamic.

Illustration for Group Dynamics
In the debate team's practice session, Maria was conspicuous by her absence.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Implicit Criticism

The phrase can imply a mild criticism or disappointment over someone not being where they're expected.

Illustration for Implicit Criticism
When the awards were given, the main sponsor was conspicuous by their absence.
Visual representation of the word "Conspicuous by your absence"

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