Ostensibly

/ɒˈstɛn.sɪ.bli/ · adverb

Meaning

(modal) Seemingly, apparently, on the surface; supposedly, according to representations or implications made by someone (especially when their motives are suspected by others)..

Example Sentences

Near-synonyms: reportedly, reputedly, purportedly, putatively, rumoredly, supposedly, allegedly, possibly, probably, likely, plausibly, presumably; see also Thesaurus:ostensibly

His interest in the railway was ostensibly a hobby, but people began wondering why he was taking photos of specific trains and specific equipment.

Her interest in his welfare was ostensibly charitable and magnanimous, but people began wondering who was going to inherit his assets when he died.

On 13 June the peshwa signed a new treaty, ostensibly complying with the demands of the British government[…]

Up to a year or two ago it had been the custom to kill horses in the yards — ostensibly for fertilizer; […]

The original branch was 5¾ miles long, from Llantrisant to Cowbridge only, but in 1889, the T.V.R. [Taff Vale Railway] obtained powers […] to continue the line for 6½ miles south to the coast at Aberthaw, ostensibly for the purpose of serving the important limestone works there, but one suspects other motives, including an understandable desire on the part of the T.V.R. to put a spoke in the wheel of the oncoming Barry Railway !

People strive to achieve perfection — ostensibly an honorable goal — but complete perfection is dangerous. To be imperfect, but human, is far preferable.

Mr. Marwan’s story — a tale overflowing with the suspense and ruthless duplicity of a spy novel — began to take shape in the spring of 1969. He had come to London, ostensibly to consult a Harley Street doctor about a stomach ailment. He chose to be examined by a doctor whose offices had been used previously for a covert meeting between King Hussein of Jordan and the general director of the Israeli prime minister’s office."

Synonyms for ostensibly

Antonyms for ostensibly

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Usage Notes

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