WordValeostensible
stated as true but perhaps not so; apparent
In more detail
appearing to be true or real, but perhaps not actually so; claimed or stated as the reason, but possibly not the real one
Examples
- The ostensible reason for the meeting was to discuss budget, but everyone knew they wanted to announce layoffs.
How to use ostensible
Ostensible is used when something appears to be one way on the surface but may not be true underneath. It carries a note of skepticism or doubt, suggesting a discrepancy between what is shown and what is real. Unlike 'apparent', which can be neutral, ostensible often implies intentional concealment or deception.
Common phrases
- ostensible reason
- ostensible purpose
- ostensible aim
- ostensible difference
- ostensible agreement
Synonyms
apparent · seeming · purported · claimed · professed
Opposites
genuine · actual · real
Word family
ostensibly (adverb) · ostensibility (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse ostensible with 'possible' or 'potential', but ostensible specifically means appearing to be true rather than being potentially true.
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