conspicuous by its absence

Idioms  

1. Also, conspicuous by one's absence. Glaringly obvious by the fact of not being there. For example, One agenda item concerning publicity is conspicuous by its absence, or The bride's father was conspicuous by his absence. The idea is ancient; it was expressed by the Roman writer Tacitus, concerning the absence of Junia's brother and husband at her funeral procession. [Mid-1800s]

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Example Sentences

While the Russian delegation will be conspicuous by its absence, organisers hailed a record turnout in terms of the number and diversity of participants, with expectations of a "high-level" Chinese presence.

From Reuters • Jan. 10, 2023

In this state-controlled sphere, the war is most conspicuous by its absence.

From Washington Post • Mar. 4, 2022

When Thierry Frémaux, artistic director of the Cannes film festival, held the traditional press conference in April to announce the lineup of the 72nd edition, one big name was conspicuous by its absence.

From The Guardian • May 13, 2019

Made in 1958, “Anticipation of the Night” was conspicuous by its absence in the two excellent Brakhage compilations released several years ago by Criterion.

From New York Times • Dec. 22, 2017

Colours bearing that name have come under our notice, but if their hue was pure and vivid, they have always proved to be falsely so called, the madder being conspicuous by its absence.

From Field's Chromatography or Treatise on Colours and Pigments as Used by Artists by Salter, Thomas