昭彰 is a formal literary adjective meaning 'blatantly evident' or 'flagrant'—used to describe something so obvious it cannot be ignored or concealed, often with negative connotations like injustice, wrongdoing, or hypocrisy. The character 昭 (zhāo) means 'bright,' 'clear,' or 'illuminating,' while 彰 (zhāng) means 'to display prominently' or 'to make evident.' Together, they form an intensifying compound: 'brightly displayed' → unmistakably clear.

This word appears frequently in written Chinese—especially in news reports, editorials, legal commentary, and historical analysis—but rarely in casual speech. It carries a weighty, critical tone and often modifies abstract nouns such as '罪行' (crime), '事实' (fact), or '用心' (intent). Because of its classical roots and elevated register, learners should avoid using it in everyday conversation or informal writing.