overt
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “overt” mean?
noun.done or shown openly; plainly or readily apparent, not secret or hidden.
SAT Usage
the term is often found in passages discussing social dynamics, psychology, or political contexts. It emphasizes clarity and transparency in actions or attitudes, contrasting with words like "covert," which suggests hidden motives or actions, thereby highlighting the significance of openness in communication or behavior.
Common Confusions
Overt implies actions or attitudes that are openly expressed, while covert usually suggests something concealed or done in secret.
Do not choose overt if the context emphasizes secrecy or hidden motives rather than actions that are done or shown openly and plainly.
Example Sentences
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His overt hostility made collaboration nearly impossible.
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Her overt enthusiasm for the project inspired her classmates, encouraging them to collaborate and invest their creativity into the work.