When combined, 显 (to show) + 而 (and so) + 易 (it's easy) + 见 (to see) creates a vivid and logical meaning: “Once it is shown, it is easy to see.” This structure perfectly captures the idea of something being immediately apparent.
As a `chengyu` (成语), 显而易见 is part of a rich tradition of using four-character idioms to convey complex ideas concisely. Using chengyu demonstrates a higher level of linguistic and cultural fluency. While it doesn't tie to a deep philosophical concept like 关系 (guānxi), its usage reflects a value for clear, logical communication. In Western culture, we might say “it's self-evident,” “it's plain as day,” or even a more casual “duh, obviously.” 显而易见 covers a similar range but as a single, more structured phrase. Unlike the very informal “duh,” 显而易见 is perfectly acceptable in formal writing and speeches. Its existence as a common idiom highlights the efficiency of the Chinese language, where four characters can express what takes a full clause in English. Using it correctly shows that you can not only state a fact but also frame it as an established, undeniable starting point for an argument.
显而易见 is an extremely versatile idiom used across all registers of the language.