ostensibly
3 synonyms and 1 antonym for ostensibly, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — Apparently or supposedly, based on what is claimed — often with the hint that the real reason might be different.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
on the face of it
Antonyms
How to use ostensibly
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
ostensibly to
ostensibly for
ostensibly because
Etymology
Built from "ostensible" (from Latin ostentare, "to show off, display") plus the adverb-forming suffix "-ly."
Full origin of ostensibly →Frequently asked questions
What does “ostensibly” mean?
The word “ostensibly” means apparently or supposedly, based on what is claimed — often with the hint that the real reason might be different. In plain terms, on the surface, or according to what people say — often used when you suspect the stated reason isn't the whole story.
How do you pronounce “ostensibly”?
“Ostensibly” is pronounced o-STEHN-sih-blee (/ɑˈstɛn.sə.bli/ in IPA).
How do you use “ostensibly” in a sentence?
Here is “ostensibly” used in a sentence: “She left the meeting early, ostensibly to catch a flight.”
What is the opposite of “ostensibly”?
The opposite of “ostensibly” — its antonyms — is actually.
What part of speech is “ostensibly”?
“Ostensibly” is an adverb.
Where does the word “ostensibly” come from?
The word “ostensibly” comes from Latin. Built from "ostensible" (from Latin ostentare, "to show off, display") plus the adverb-forming suffix "-ly.".
Is “ostensibly” a common word?
“Ostensibly” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
