These two words are synonyms. obvious - If something is obvious, it is easy to see or understand (evident): e.g. Her disappointment was obvious to everyone. distinct - 1) recognizably different in nature from something else of a similar type: e.g. There are two distinct types of sickle cell disease 2) (used for emphasis) so clearly apparent to the mind as to be unmistakable; definite (clear): e.g. He got the distinct impression that Melissa wasn't best pleased

These two words have different meanings. Distinct means distinguishable to the eye or mind as discrete or separate. For example: Three distinct categories. There are three categories which can viewed independent or separate from one another. The word obvious means easily discovered, seen, or understood. Used in the above example: Three obvious categories. This is saying the three categories are easily seen and understood to be the categories to represent something.

They are synonyms. -->Similair in meaning Distinct (something stands out) & Obvious (easily perceived or understood): - Apparent, understandable EX: That is a very distinct color on you. That is an obvious answer, duh!