ostensibly
o-STEHN-sih-blee
Ostensibly (adv) means Apparently or supposedly, based on what is claimed — often with the hint that the real reason might be different. Example: “She left the meeting early, ostensibly to catch a flight.”
adv
1
Apparently or supposedly, based on what is claimed — often with the hint that the real reason might be different.
"She left the meeting early, ostensibly to catch a flight."
"The company cut jobs ostensibly to save costs, though many suspected other motives."
How to use ostensibly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOn the surface, or according to what people say — often used when you suspect the stated reason isn't the whole story.
Memory tip
If you're quietly doubting the official reason for something, "ostensibly" is the word that signals that doubt.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
ostensibly to
ostensibly for
ostensibly because
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like ostensibly.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She left the meeting early, _____ to catch a flight.
Etymology
Built from "ostensible" (from Latin ostentare, "to show off, display") plus the adverb-forming suffix "-ly."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for ostensibly
See all rhymes for 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.
