Ostensibly
Meaning: As it appears or is claimed on the surface, though perhaps not actually true.
Examples
- The committee was ostensibly formed to study traffic safety, but its members spent most meetings discussing a new parking garage.
- The letter was ostensibly a thank-you note, though its pointed remarks suggest the writer was really complaining.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Memory tip
It is related to "ostentatious." Both come from Latin ostendere, "to show." Ostensibly means "as shown on the surface."
Practice question
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
The expedition was ______ organized to map the coastline, but private letters reveal that its true goal was to search for gold.
Answer: A) ostensibly
The stated purpose (mapping) differs from the real one (gold). That gap between appearance and reality is what "ostensibly" signals.
Make “ostensibly” stick
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